Everything You Need to Know About Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is a vaginal inflammation that occurs when bacteria that's naturally present in the vagina grows to excess. The bacterial imbalance that occurs is not dangerous, but the symptoms that accompany the condition are often unpleasant and disturbing.

It is difficult to diagnose this infection as half the time women show no symptoms. There are several indications that you are suffering from this infection. There is vaginal discharge that is grey-white. There are women who refer to this color as yellow. Women with bacterial vaginosis tend to produce fishy odor after sex. This smell is usually irritating and makes them feel uncomfortable.

Causes: The exact cause of bacterial vaginosis is unknown. However, the condition is characterized by a reduction of good vaginal bacteria, also known as lactobacilli, and an increase of bad vaginal bacteria, also referred to as anaerobic bacteria. When the bad bacteria outnumber the good bacteria you risk getting the condition, which is commonly experienced during a woman's reproductive years. Unprotected sexual intercourse, vaginal douching, cigarette smoking and use of an intrauterine device for birth control increase a woman's chance of developing the condition.

Symptoms: The main symptoms of this bacterial infection are a thin, white vaginal discharge and a foul-smelling vaginal odor. Other symptoms that may be experienced include painful intercourse, painful urination, vaginal itching and light vaginal bleeding.

Diagnosis: To diagnose the condition your doctor may inquire about your sexual history. He or she may ask questions about previous vaginal infections. The doctor may perform a pelvic exam to visually examine your external genitalia and to check for unusual internal characteristics that indicate the vaginal infection. Additionally, your doctor may examine a sample of vaginal secretion and he or she may check the acidity of your vaginal area.

Treatment: To treat bacterial vaginosis your doctor can prescribe antibiotics, which can be taken orally in the form of a pill, or as a gel or cream that's inserted into the vagina. The prescription must be completed as instructed to prevent recurrence of the infection. Alcohol consumption is not recommended while taking the antibiotics because this may result in nausea or abdominal pain.

Prevention: To prevent this condition avoid having sexual intercourse with multiple partners. Abstaining from intercourse can minimize your risk of getting the infection. When you do have sexual intercourse, always have your partner use a latex condom. Avoid vaginal douching, hot tubs or using deodorant soaps on your vaginal area. Keep vaginal irritation to a minimum to reduce your chance of getting the infection. For more info see Bacterial Vaginosis

Diane Lloyd lives near Nashville, TN. She created Bacterial Vaginosis Help Understanding it causes and treatment.

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