When the vagina is healthy, it has an acidic pH balance, which prevents infection and germs spreading. For various reasons the bacteria can multiply, upsetting the pH balance and making the vagina more alkaline. This can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as itching and a grey/white vaginal discharge. According to Bupa Healthcare, Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal infection, affecting around 1/3 women.
Causes of Bacterial Vaginosis
Various triggers, according to medical experts at Patient UK, cause Bacterial Vaginosis: -
- Using perfumed soaps and bath products.
- Using strong washing powders and fabric conditioners.
- Vaginal douching
- Long-term stress.
- Hormonal changes during your menstrual cycle.
- Genetic factors – it is thought that black women are more susceptible to BV.
- Using tampons.
- Using a coil as a contraceptive method.
- Smoking.
Bacterial Vaginosis is not a sexually transmitted infection but it has been linked to semen and having unprotected sex with a new partner.
Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis
Typical symptoms of BV are a grey/white vaginal discharge, which can smell strongly after sex or menstruation. The vagina may also itch or burn and you may experience stomach pains. In some cases symptoms are mild and you might not realise you have BV unless it is picked up during a routine gynecological test.
Treating Bacterial Vaginosis
If your symptoms are mild, it may clear up on its own without further treatment. However, it is best to see your doctor or local sexual health clinic for a diagnosis to rule out any other sexually transmitted infections. Your doctor will take a swab of the discharge (using a cotton bud) or do a urine test to test the pH level of the vagina.
If BV is diagnosed antibiotics (Metronidazole) is the usual treatment – a week’s course, which you need to finish even if symptoms clear up. This helps reduce the risk of recurrence. Antibiotics come in tablet form or a cream/gel that you use internally. If you are pregnant, it is important to be treated – BV has been linked to premature labour, miscarriage and pelvic inflammatory disease.
Do Natural Remedies for Bacterial Vaginosis work?
Some women like to use live natural yoghurt to help ease vaginal infections such as BV and thrush but there is no evidence to show that this clears it up. However, if you find it soothes symptoms it is worth a try until you can see the doctor. Antibiotics are the recommended medical treatment to clear out your system and rebalance the vaginal pH.
Self-help and Prevention for Bacterial Vaginosis
You can help prevent recurrent outbreaks of BV and other vaginal infections by making a few lifestyle changes. Experiment with different contraceptive methods if you use a coil. Have an allergy test to see if you are allergic to anything such as latex in condoms. Avoid unprotected sex with a new partner until have both been checked for STIs. Don’t over-wash or douche the vagina, and wear cotton underwear. Swap biological detergents or fabric conditioners for a natural brand to see if this makes a difference. Prolonged stress and smoking have also been linked to BV so you may wish to make a few lifestyle changes to see if it helps reduce outbreaks.
You may find it helpful to keep a diary of triggers or habits that are contributing to infections. Sometimes it can be the small things, as above, that you may not think twice about, and these are easily rectified. If you suspect you have a vaginal infection or simply want more advice, your local sexual health clinic is an excellent source of information. The good news is that BV is very common, and easy to treat.
Resources
For further information on sexual health and to find your nearest clinic call 0800 567 123 or visit Condom Essential Wear.
This article is for general information purposes only. Consult your health practitioner for specific guidance on a health issue.
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