February 16, 2025
Bacterial Vaginosis

Understanding Bacterial Vaginosis: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

What is BV?

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of bacteria that normally live in the vagina. The bacteria responsible for BV are not the typical ones found in a healthy vagina. BV occurs when there is too much of certain bacteria and not enough of others. This imbalance disrupts the normal acidity of the vagina and allows excess growth of Anaerobic bacteria.

Causes of BV

The exact causes of BV are still unknown but some factors that may contribute to it are:

Sexual Activity: Having multiple or new sexual partners can increase the risk of getting BV as certain bacteria may be transmitted through sexual contact. Women who are sexually active are more likely to develop BV.

– Douching: Douching or washing inside the vagina with products such as feminine hygiene sprays can disrupt the normal bacterial balance in the vagina and promote the overgrowth of bacteria that cause BV. It is not recommended to douche regularly.

Hormonal Changes: Changes in estrogen levels during a woman’s menstrual cycle or due to oral contraceptives may impact the pH balance in the vagina and increase susceptibility to BV.

Genetics: Some women may be genetically predisposed to imbalances in vaginal bacteria due to differences in glycogen levels, immune response or genetic factors that have not been identified.

– Personal Hygiene
: Poor personal hygiene practices like not changing pads or tampons regularly during periods may allow an overgrowth of bacteria.

Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis

Abnormal vaginal discharge: Instead of the normal clear or whitish discharge, women with BV may have a thin, milky white discharge that may be described as fishy smelling especially after or during sexual intercourse.

Vulvar itching or irritation: The excess discharge can cause inflammation, redness and itching around the outer vaginal area.

– Pain during sexual intercourse
: The change in vaginal flora and pH due to BV can cause dryness, irritation and painful sex.

Burning sensation during urination: Burning or irritation while peeing may occur due to excess discharge coming into contact with delicate vulvar skin.

Diagnosis of Bacterial Vaginosis

To diagnose BV, a healthcare provider will perform a pelvic exam and collect a sample of vaginal fluid for microscopic evaluation. The sample is mixed with a substance called potassium hydroxide (KOH) and examined under a microscope for clues (like presence of clue cells) that suggest an overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria characteristic of BV. Diagnosis is based on Amsel diagnostic criteria which uses symptoms and physical examination to detect BV.

Treatments for BV

Most cases of BV can be easily treated with antibiotics available in various forms like oral pills, creams or gels. The medications commonly prescribed include:

Metronidazole (Flagyl): This antibiotic comes as a pill or gel that is inserted into the vagina. It is usually prescribed as a single dose or for 5-7 days to eliminate BV.

Clindamycin: Clindamycin cream is also very effective and is either applied intravaginally at bedtime for 7 days or prescribed as oral capsules for 3 days.

Tinidazole: This shorter course oral antibiotic is taken as 2 grams once a day for 2 days. It has similar cure rates as the other antibiotics.

In addition to antibiotics, lifestyle changes that promote healthy vaginal bacteria are recommended. These include wearing cotton underwear, avoiding vaginal douches, using condoms during sex and changing pads or tampons regularly. Recurrence is common so a follow up visit is suggested if symptoms return. In some cases, recurrent BV may need longer treatment courses. Pregnant women should be treated as BV increases risk of preterm birth. Partners generally do not need treatment but it may help prevent re-infection. With proper diagnosis and treatment, BV can easily be cured. However, prevention of recurrence remains a challenge.

In conclusion, bacterial vaginosis is a very common vaginal infection that occurs due to an imbalance in vaginal bacteria. While its exact causes are unclear, factors like douching, multiple sex partners, antibiotics use and hormonal changes can increase the risk. BV causes abnormal vaginal discharge and odor as well as vulvar irritation and painful urination. It is diagnosed by microscopic examination of vaginal fluids. Short antibiotic regimens with metronidazole or clindamycin are highly effective treatments. Adopting a healthy lifestyle also helps control recurrence. With appropriate medical care, affected women can experience prompt relief from the bothersome symptoms of this widespread infection.

*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it

Ravina
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Ravina Pandya, a content writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemicals and materials, etc. With an MBA in E-commerce, she has expertise in SEO-optimized content that resonates with industry professionals. 

Ravina Pandya

Ravina Pandya, a content writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemicals and materials, etc. With an MBA in E-commerce, she has expertise in SEO-optimized content that resonates with industry professionals. 

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