Bacterial Vaginosis

BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS

Bacterial vaginosis. An off-white or gray vaginal discharge that smells “fishy” is one of the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common vaginal infection that is easily treated with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare professional. BV occurs when some of the normal bacteria that live in your vagina overgrow, causing a bacterial imbalance.

BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS

A bacterial overgrowth is the cause of bacterial vaginosis, a vaginal infection. There are germs in every healthy vagina . These bacteria usually balance one another. Occasionally, the “bad” bacteria proliferate excessively and overwhelm the “good” bacteria. Bacterial vaginosis results from this disruption of the vaginal bacterial equilibrium. Your vaginal discharge may smell “fishy” if you have bacterial vaginosis. Some people may also experience vaginal discomfort as a result. Others might not exhibit any BV symptoms.

Symptoms

Up to 84% of bacterial vaginosis patients show no symptoms. If you do, you might possess:
gray, greenish, or off-white vaginal discharge.
vaginal discharge with a fishy scent, particularly after intercourse.
Itching or irritation of the vagina.
the sensation of burning when urinating.
Similar to other illnesses, BV can cause similar symptoms. It’s crucial to see a doctor to find out if you have a vaginal infection or something else.

Treatment

Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics, usually clindamycin or metronidazole. These drugs are applied to your vagina as a gel or cream. Some antibiotics come in pill form that you can consume.
It’s critical to take the antibiotic as directed by your doctor and to finish it. Your risk of recurrent BV increases if you quit too soon because your symptoms will go away.

Prevention

Don’t douch. It alters your vagina’s normal bacterial equilibrium. Instead, take care of your vulvar and vaginal health.

Anything that has been into contact with your anus should not be vaginal. Sex toys and toilet paper can spread bacteria from your feces to your vagina. After each use, make sure sexual toys are cleaned thoroughly.

Don’t have too many sexual partners. According to research, having several sexual partners increases your risk of developing BV.

Use dental dams or latex condoms. Research suggests that sexual activity is linked to BV, though it’s unclear why.

Put on cotton or undergarments lined with cotton. Bacteria prefer damp conditions. Cotton aids in moisture wicking.

Bacterial vaginosis can sometimes be cured without the need for treatment. However, you should see a doctor if you develop symptoms. Having BV can interfere with pregnancy and increase your risk of contracting other sexually transmitted illnesses.

Summary

Antibiotics can be used to treat bacterial vaginosis (BV), a minor infection that can increase your susceptibility to more serious illnesses. If you notice anything out of the ordinary about your vaginal discharge, don’t put off visiting a healthcare specialist.