Bacterial Vaginosis is one of the most common infections that affect the vagina, a part of the reproductive organs during reproductive years.

It’s caused by the bacterial imbalance in the vagina that naturally contains both good and bad bacteria, both maintain the vaginal pH balanced, but their overgrowth for numerous reasons may lead to pH imbalance which it is crucial to prevent germs and vaginal dryness, eventually that imbalance causes infection.¹

What are the causes of bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial Vaginosis isn’t one of the sexually transmitted diseases, scientists yet can’t confirm the real reason behind the infection, but studies concluded that it’s more likely to affect ” sexually active women as well as women with multiple sexual partners “. On the other hand, it’s less likely to affect females with no prior sexual experience.

There are numerous factors that may cause a bacterial imbalance, thus increasing the possibility of infection, such as:

• Stress
• Using vaginal washes frequently without consulting a doctor.
• Using intrauterine devices to prevent pregnancy.
• Some medications like antibiotics are used to treat urinary tract infections and throat infections that may eliminate vaginal flora.
• Vaginal douching may reduce vaginal flora.²

How do you know if you have bacterial Vaginosis?

You will notice many symptoms like:

1. White or gray vaginal discharge with a fishy smell especially after intercourse.
2. Burning sensation during urination.
3. Bleeding after intercourse.
4. Redness and itchiness in the vagina.

A specialized doctor runs many tests for a diagnosis like:

1. Taking medical history from the patient.
2. Asking about daily practices and sexual relations.
3. Clinical examination by taking a swab from the vagina to examine under the microscope and confirm the diagnosis.

What is the treatment?

After confirming the diagnosis, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics whether given orally or applied directly inside the vagina (creams or vaginal suppositories), most prescribed antibiotics are:

• Clindamycin.
• Metronidazole.¹

The patient must take the treatment based on the doctor’s instructions to prevent recurring infections, a common situation that may happen after a few months of treatment which needs treatment with more antibiotics.³

The doctor may look for other possible factors of bacterial Vaginosis like decreased levels of Estrogen that may happen after menopause, then they will prescribe Estrogen vaginal suppositories to restore balance.

How to prevent frequent bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial Vaginosis may become a frequent issue for the patient, causing disturbances like burning sensation and pain during intercourse.

This can be prevented by doing some things that will keep the vaginal environment balanced to avoid such infections like:

1. Change wet clothes after swimming or doing sports, moist environment is suitable for bacterial growth.
2. Wipe from front to back after using the toilet, this prevents bacteria spread from the anus to the vagina.
3. Keep the vagina clean by using unscented natural soap that doesn’t contain any chemicals, avoid excessive cleaning so the good bacteria won’t get affected as well.
4. Avoid douching “unless it’s doctor’s instructions.”⁴

Bacterial Vaginosis is a common problem, but treatable problem. Simple measures can be done to prevent bacterial Vaginosis and other vaginal infections. In the end, an ounce of balanced personal hygiene and prevention measures is better than a pound of cure.

Also read:

• Endometriosis
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

References:

1. Web Teb
2. MOH
3. NHS
4. Fair View