 Bacterial
Vaginosis |
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Bacterial vaginosis,
or vaginitis, is a common vaginal infection
observed among women in their reproductive
phase (12-50 years of age) and among
those who are sexually active. Statistics
reveal that in the United States almost
16% of pregnant women suffer from bacterial
vaginosis and that 10-64% of women suffer
from this condition at any given time.
Bacterial vaginosis occurs more frequently
and is more widespread than yeast infections.
Although there
are several natural home remedies that
may contribute to the treatment of bacterial
vaginosis, patients should seek professional
assistance if the condition persists
or if its symptoms become unbearable.
The vagina maintains
a delicate balance of healthy bacteria
that belong to the Lactobacilli family.
Two primary types of bacteria, called
Lactobacillus jensenii and Lactobacillus
crispatus, prevent the growth of germs
in the vagina by producing a disinfectant
called hydrogen peroxide.
Bacterial vaginosis
occurs when the healthy bacteria are
replaced by an overabundance of undesirable
and harmful bacteria called Gardnerella.
Gardnerella disrupt the disinfectant
mechanism of Lactobacilli. Factors leading
to the growth of Gardnerella are not
confirmed but specific behaviors appear
to favor their multiplication.
Undergarments,
especially those made from synthetic
fabric, fail to absorb vaginal moisture
and contribute to the development of
bacterial vaginosis. Tight clothing
also retains moisture and thus increases
the probability of contracting the infection.
Perfumed tampons
contain chemicals that disrupt the normal
pH balance of the vagina and inhibit
the production of healthy vaginal bacteria.
The use of unsterilized contraception
devices such as cervical caps and diaphragms,
and the use of spermicidal applicators,
are also responsible for the development
of this infection.
The failure to
practice good vaginal hygiene is another
factor responsible for the occurrence
of bacterial vaginosis and examples
of this involve the improper or infrequent
cleansing of the vagina. Ironically,
bacterial vaginosis can also be caused
by using feminine hygiene products such
as douching, vaginal sprays or wipes.
Avoid these products and use a mild
soap and warm water to cleanse the vaginal
area.
Although bacterial
vaginosis is not a sexually transmitted
disease (STD), having sex with an infected
partner can cause its symptoms. Frequent
sexual activity in a short duration
of time and having multiple sexual partners
increase the risk of developing this
condition as well.
Diabetes, impending
menopause, malnutrition and lower levels
of immunity further increase the risk
of developing bacterial vaginosis.
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