The most effective medical treatments for bacterial vaginosis

Vaginal discomfort is common but shouldn't be ignored. Understanding the signs of BV is the first step to relief. This guide explains what is bacterial vaginosis (BV) so you can take control of your health.

What are the main causes of Bacterial Vaginosis?

• What is bacterial vaginosis (BV)? It's an imbalance, not a true infection, caused by an overgrowth of certain bacteria like Gardnerella vaginalis.
• This disrupts the natural vaginal pH balance for vagina, allowing less desirable bacteria to thrive while reducing the number of protective lactobacilli.
• How do you get BV? Douching, new sexual partners, and lack of condoms can increase your risk, although it is not considered a classic STD.

Key symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis to watch for

• The most common of all signs of BV is a thin, greyish-white discharge with a strong, unpleasant fishy odor discharge.
• This odor is often more noticeable after sex, which helps differentiate BV vs yeast infection, which typically has no strong odor.
• Some also experience vaginal itching or irritation, but many may have no noticeable bacterial vaginosis symptoms at all and require no treatment.

How can you prevent Bacterial Vaginosis effectively?

• For BV prevention, avoid douching, which disrupts the natural vaginal flora and can worsen the bacterial imbalance you are trying to prevent.
• Use gentle, unscented soaps on the external genital area only, and wear breathable cotton underwear to maintain a healthy environment.
• To help prevent recurring bacterial vaginosis, consider using condoms and limiting new sexual partners to reduce exposure to different bacteria.

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Recognizing the warning signs of Bacterial Vaginosis through images 

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While some seek home remedies for BV or an over the counter BV treatment, the most effective BV treatment involves prescription antibiotics like metronidazole for BV. See a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

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