What is BV)?
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common syndrome caused by an overgrowth of certain bacteria that normally live in the vagina. It affects millions of women in the United States each year. BV occurs when there is an imbalance between the normal bacteria in the vagina and there is an overgrowth of other types of bacteria.
Signs and Symptoms of BV
The most common symptoms of BV include:
– Abnormal vaginal discharge that may be thin, white, gray, or watery and discharge that has a strong fishy odor, especially after sex.
– Vaginal itching, burning, or irritation.
– Pain during sex or urination.
– Pain in the lower abdomen.
However, up to half of women who have BV may not have any symptoms. BV can only be diagnosed by a medical provider during an examination.
Causes and Risk Factors of Bacterial Vaginosis
The exact causes of BV are unknown, but it is associated with an overgrowth of certain bacteria like Gardnerella vaginalis, Atopobium vaginae, Mobiluncus spp., or Mycoplasma hominis that can disrupt the normal vaginal environment. Risk factors for developing BV include:
– New or multiple sex partners.
– Douching. Douching can wash away or disturb the normal vaginal bacteria and pH balance.
– Sexual activity. BV is more common in women who are sexually active.
– Personal hygiene products. Use of scented sprays, oils, sanitary pads, or tampons may increase risk.
– Menopause. Drops in estrogen levels during menopause can alter vaginal bacteria.
– Smoking. Smoking may weaken the immune system and impact vaginal health.
Diagnosing BV)
To diagnose BV, a health care provider will do a pelvic exam and take a sample of vaginal fluid to examine under a microscope. During the pelvic exam, the provider checks for signs of infection like increased vaginal discharge. The sample is checked for:
– The presence of clue cells, which are vaginal epithelial cells covered with borders of adherent bacteria.
– The vaginal fluid pH level, which is normally acidic but becomes alkaline with BV.
– A fishy odor when potassium hydroxide (KOH) is added to the fluid, known as a positive whiff test.
Treating Bacterial Vaginosis
BV is usually treated with antibiotic medications, either:
– Oral antibiotics like metronidazole or tinidazole taken for 5-7 days.
– Topical gels or creams containing metronidazole applied intravaginally for 5 days.
Treatment usually relieves symptoms within 3 days in most cases. It is important to complete the full antibiotic course even if symptoms resolve early. Having unprotected sex before and during treatment can slow recovery or allow reinfection. Follow up with a provider 1-2 weeks after treatment to ensure symptoms do not return. Recurrences are common, so providers may recommend maintenance therapy with lower dose antibiotics. Natural remedies are generally not effective for treating BV.
Preventing Recurrence of BV
To prevent recurrences of BV, women can:
– Consider limiting new or multiple sex partners.
– Avoid douching, scented sprays or sanitary products in the vaginal area.
– Practice good perimenopausal and postmenopausal hygiene by maintaining vaginal moisture with lubricants.
– Manage stress and maintain a balanced diet and lifestyle routines that support immune function.
– Use condoms during sex to provide a barrier against bacteria transmission between partners.
– Seek follow up care from a provider if symptoms return after treatment to address possible contributing factors.
– Follow treatment regimens as directed and consult a provider with any concerns.
Living with Bacterial Vaginosis
For most women, Bacterial vaginosis causes only minor disruptions and clears with appropriate treatment. However, BV may increase risk of pelvic inflammatory disease, preterm birth, and HIV and sexually transmitted infection transmission. It is important to see a provider promptly if symptoms seem worse, develop new symptoms between outbreaks, or treatment does not provide relief. A history of repeat infections may suggest sexual transmission or other underlying contributing issues. With proper management, most women can prevent complications from BV and effectively control symptoms over time.
In conclusion, BV is the most common cause of abnormal vaginal discharge and odor. While not serious if managed properly, it can reoccur without ongoing maintenance. Recognizing common symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options empowers women to seek prompt care and help control this common condition. Continued preventive efforts, like limiting new partners, avoiding irritants, and finishing antibiotic regimens completely, provide long term protection against recurrence. Consultation with a gynecologist can address more persistent or complicated cases.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc.