Treatment for Bacterial Vaginosis

The treatment of bacterial vaginosis begins with knowing what this infection actually is. It is defined as an imbalance between the anaerobic bacteria and the good bacteria in the vaginal flora. An excess of harmful bacteria like Gardnerella as opposed the protective bacteria Lactobacilli triggers bacterial vaginosis.

One may know if she is infected with bacterial vaginosis if she experiences any of the following signs and symptoms:

• Foul-smelling grayish white vaginal discharge
• Irritation, itching and reddening along the vaginal area
• Pain during urination

These symptoms can easily be attributed to other medical conditions like candidiasis and trichomoniasis. These conditions, however, are not caused by bacteria. That is why it is vital that a doctor's opinion be obtained. The right diagnosis is important when considering treatment for bacterial vaginosis as this may lead to other complications. In fact, leaving bacterial vaginosis untreated increases the chances of acquiring sexually-transmitted diseases like Human Immunodeficiency Virus or HIV.

Fingers have also been pointed at the following activities as some of the culprits of bacterial vaginosis:

• Engaging in sex with new or multiple sexual partners
• Stress
• Using IUD contraceptives
• Douching

Most doctors prescribe antibiotics to fight off bacterial vaginosis. The most popular cure is Metronidazole. It can be taken orally or as a vaginal gel. There are, however, some side effects to taking these antibiotics. The vaginal gel, for example, has been known to trigger yeast infection while the pill forms cause vomiting and nausea especially when mixed with alcohol.

The natural method of treating bacterial vaginosis involves herbs and doing the proper practices. Fresh garlic has antibacterial properties that help fight the bad bacteria. It can be wrapped in clean gauze and placed inside the vagina. Caution should be practiced here along with hygiene by replacing the gauze every once in a while. Yogurt also has medicinal properties that helps treat the vaginal infection. It can be eaten or placed in the vagina directly or by using a tampon. Make sure to use plain yogurt not the flavored ones. Apple cider vinegar mixed with bath water may also be used. Soak under the mixture for at least 20 minutes a day.

A lifestyle change is also beneficial. For young people, delaying their first sexual encounter will help prevent vaginal infections. For sexually-active women, sticking to one STD-free partner and refraining from having multiple sex partners will lessen the risk of bacterial vaginosis. Using condoms can also alleviate the chances of developing the infection and the need for treatment of bacterial vaginosis.