 Bacterial
Vaginosis |
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Symptoms of Bacterial
Vaginosis
The most common
symptoms of bacterial vaginosis are
irritation and itching in the vagina.
Scratching the vaginal itch may cause
further infection. In some cases, these
symptoms may be accompanied with redness,
swelling and light bleeding. Some women
complain of a severe burning sensation
that occurs during urination.
Bacterial Vaginosis
also alters the color and the odor of
regular vaginal discharge. There may
be excess discharge accompanied by a
fishy odor and this occurs particularly
after sexual activity. The bacterial
infection also raises the pH level of
the vagina.
Some women who are experiencing bacterial
vaginosis may not experience any physical
symptoms. However, vaginitis increases
the patient’s risk of acquiring
other sexually transmitted diseases
including gonorrhea and chlamydia. Women
also become greatly vulnerable to contracting
HIV (AIDS virus) from infected partners.
Bacterial vaginosis
can create complications among pregnant
women. Early diagnosis is extremely
important because if bacterial vaginosis
is left untreated the patient may eventually
develop pelvic inflammatory disease
(PID), cervicitis and other diseases
related to the pelvic area.
Natural Cures
Bacterial vaginosis
is often mistaken for a vaginal yeast
infection, another common problem faced
by most women. An incorrect diagnosis
and mistreatment of bacterial vaginosis
may worsen the condition. Therefore,
it is extremely important to obtain
a correct diagnosis so that appropriate
treatment can be obtained.
Yogurt
Yogurt, a rich source of Lactobacillus,
can be applied directly on the affected
region. Consuming yogurt in generous
amounts also assists in treating bacterial
vaginosis.
Tea
Patients
may seek immediate relief from itching
and irritation by applying a tea bag
soaked in cold water on the affected
area.
Herbal douches
Herbs
like Calendula, Goldenseal, Echinacea
or Tea Tree oil have an anti-inflammatory
effect. However, a doctor should be
consulted before the utilization of
any herbal douches.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Add a few
cups of pure Apple Cider Vinegar to
bath water and proceed to soak in it
for at least 20 minutes. An Apple Cider
Vinegar bath may aid in restoring the
vagina’s normal pH level.
Healthy Lifestyle
The benefits
of following a healthy lifestyle should
never be underestimated. Women should
be particularly careful about their
hygienic habits. It is recommended to
use running water, preferably warm,
and a mild bathing soap to clean the
vagina every day. Avoid perfumed personal
hygiene products such as toilet paper,
tampons, napkins and soaps.
Douching is unnatural
for the human body. It disrupts the
vaginal bacterial balance and causes
a pH imbalance that creates a breeding
ground for Gardnerella. Avoid douching
unless it is utilized to treat vaginitis.
Wear comfortable
cotton panties that are suitable for
absorbing moisture and wear a thoroughly
washed pair each day. Women who frequently
suffer from bacterial vaginosis should
use new sets of underwear every three
to six months to reduce the chance of
contracting the infection.
Use clean spermicide
applicators, diaphragms and other multiple
use contraception devices and sterilize
them properly after each use. Prevent
the spread of intestinal bacteria such
as E. coli from the anal region by wiping
yourself clean from front to back.
Use
condoms, especially if you have multiple
sexual partners. Condoms also reduce
the chances of contracting sexually
transmitted diseases.
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