Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an infection in the vagina that occurs when there are more “bad” bacteria than “good” bacteria in the vagina. Specifically, BV occurs when the normal balance of Lactobacillus bacteria that colonize the vagina gets thrown off by an overgrowth of other harmful bacteria. 1 in 3 women have at some point in their lives had BV! It is the most common vaginal infection in women ages 15 - 44years and can increase the chances of contracting an STI. Left untreated, Bacterial Vaginosis could become a major issue, especially when you are trying to get pregnant.
CAUSES
Your vagina is home to multiple types of bacteria (called a microbiome). Bacterial vaginosis results from an overgrowth of one of several bacteria naturally found in your vagina. Usually, “good” bacteria (lactobacilli) outnumber “bad” bacteria (anaerobes). But if there are too many anaerobic bacteria, they upset the natural balance of microorganisms in your vagina and cause bacterial vaginosis.
SYMPTOMS
BV doesn’t always have symptoms, so many women don’t even know they have it. Sometimes symptoms come and go, or they’re so mild that you don’t notice them. While some women don’t exhibit symptoms, women suffering from BV are likely to have such symptoms;
- Thin, grey, white, or green vaginal discharge
- fishy smell that gets stronger after sex,
- Vaginal itching
- Burning during urination
Because the symptoms are also similar to some sexually transmitted infections, it’s necessary to get tested as soon as you notice something off.
WHO CAN GET INFECTED?
All Vagina owners can get bacterial vaginosis (BV), even if they haven’t had sex. But that’s rare. It usually occurs in sexually active people. You may have a higher risk of getting BV if;
- You are pregnant.
- You don’t use condoms or dental dams.
- You have an intrauterine device (IUD)..
- You use certain feminine hygiene products, such as vaginal deodorants and douche
- You use a perfumed bubble bath
- You use some scented soaps
- You bath in water that contains antiseptic liquids
- You wash underwear with a strong detergent
- You have sex with a new partner
- You have multiple sex partners
- Smoking
A person cannot acquire BV from:
- Toilet seats
- Beddings
- Swimming pools
COMPLICATIONS
It is a minor infection and not harmful, but when left untreated could become other major health issues.
- General health complications; sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV (as having BV increases a person’s susceptibility to the virus), a post-surgical infection, for example, after some types of abortion or a hysterectomy.
- Fertility complications; BV may directly increase the likelihood of difficulty conceiving. And it may increase the risk of health complications that can affect fertility. Possible complications include Tubal factor infertility, Pelvic inflammatory disease, and unsuccessful in vitro fertilization (IVF).
- Pregnancy complications, such as early or preterm delivery, loss of pregnancy, the amniotic sac breaking open too early, postpartum endometritis, which is irritation or inflammation of the lining of the uterus after delivery, chorioamnionitis, which is inflammation of the membranes around the fetus, Chorioamnionitis significantly increases the chance of an early delivery. If the newborn lives, they have a higher risk of cerebral palsy.
If you have bacterial vaginosis (BV) while pregnant, your provider can prescribe medication that’s safe to use during pregnancy. You should get treated for the infection whether or not you have symptoms. For recurring BV, there is a possibility for the BV to reoccur, as 75% of women might likely get BV again.
TREATMENT
Bacterial vaginosis can clear up on its own most time. Getting a professional diagnosis is key to ensuring that the treatment is successful. Your doctor will prescribe the proper medications. Avoid Over-the-treatment self-treatment for yeast infection, which could make BV worse.
NATURAL REMEDY
If you’ve been diagnosed with BV or just experiencing these symptoms, there are more treatment options for BV that are natural and effective. The Tielle Intimates Boric Insert is a secondary alternative treatment for BV. It’s very effective for recurring BV. It is naturally formulated in a special way to release boric acid first to clean up infections and then release probiotics to restore the healthy microflora. Probiotics help the body grow beneficial bacteria that can fight the bacteria associated with BV. It also supports the bacterial colony that keeps the vagina healthy. Probiotics are in supplements or found in certain foods like Greek yoghurt, fermented foods, and cottage cheese.
PREVENTION
Because bacterial vaginosis (BV) isn’t fully understood, there are no foolproof ways of avoiding it. These steps may reduce your risk:
- Don’t Douche: It changes the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina. Instead, practice healthy vaginal and vulva care.
- Avoid transferring Bacteria from your anus to your Vaginal: Things like toilet paper and sex toys could transfer bacteria found in your poop to your vagina. Make sure sexual toys are properly cleaned after every use.
- Limit your number of sex partners: Research shows you’re more likely to get BV if you have multiple sex partners.
- Use condoms: Although it’s unclear why research indicates that sexual activity is associated with BV.
- Wear cotton or cotton-lined underwear: Bacteria thrive in moist environments. Cotton helps wick away moisture.
- Practice feminine hygiene: Our Nectar Feminine Cleanser routine can also help prevent BV from occurring by balancing your pH and improving your overall Vaginal health.