Bacterial
Vaginosis
Bacterial Vaginosis is a
condition, which has some similar symptoms to yeast infection.
It is caused by the overgrowth of several types of bacteria in
the vagina and not by candida as in the case of yeast
infection. Bacterial Vaginosis is common and there are a number
of differences between it and yeast infection.
Firstly, the main symptom is
vaginal discharge, however, it tends to be less thick than with
candida and usually does not cause much irritation. The
condition can often be present without any symptoms and is
sometimes left untreated. Secondly, Bacterial Vaginosis is
characterized by a fish-like smell. The smell comes from the
discharge (white/grey colour), which is usually most noticeable
after a period and after having sex.
Some women may have Bacterial
Vaginosis without knowing it and it may well cure itself. The
balance of bacteria in the vagina will often restore itself
over time so, for a lot of women, Bacterial Vaginosis is really
nothing to worry about. However, if you are pregnant and
suspect you have the condition, it is advised that you see your
doctor. If the condition needs to be treated, a doctor may
prescribe antibiotics. Natural treatments include Tea Tree oil
and there are over-the-counter products such as FemiGel,
RepHresh (the name comes from the theory of restoring the pH of
the vagina through adding acid), and LadyBalance, which is a
growth substrate for lactic acid.
Although there can be a
relationship between Bacterial Vaginosis and sex, it is not a
sexually transmitted disease and cannot be caught from a
partner. Some advice for preventing Bacterial Vaginosis is
similar to that for yeast infection; avoid scented soaps and
strong detergents when washing underwear, do not clean the area
too often (once per day is enough).
Testing for Bacterial Vaginosis
involves either an acid test (the pH will be higher than it
should be) or a swab can be taken and analyzed in a
laboratory.
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