Posted: September 25, 2016 Contributor: administrator
The Common Infection That We Tend to Forget About
Bacterial Vaginosis, also known as BV, is so common that it affects more than 3 million women in the United States each year. This infection is caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina. Our lady parts host a variety of good and bad bacteria, and the good types of bacteria keep the bad in check. When there is an upset in this balance, it leads to an infection.
What are the symptoms and risk factors of Bacterial Vaginosis
Many women that have BV do not show symptoms. However, the ones that do mostly complain of a smelly discharge as their most prevalent symptom. It may appear as a whitish-gray or milky discharge that is often accompanied by a ‘fishy’ odor. BV can also cause uncomfortable itching and burning, especially during urination.
The imbalance of bacteria can happen for various reasons. Having new (or multiple) sexual partners is one of them. Also, douching, or washing out of your vagina with a cleaning agent is another major cause.
How is Bacterial Vaginosis treated?
While BV can be uncomfortable, it is usually cleared up easily with treatment! Your doctor will likely prescribe an antibiotic pill or cream that will regulate everything and cease your symptoms. While BV cannot be spread between males and females during sex, it is common for BV to spread between females. Female partners are encouraged to seek treatment even if they are not showing any symptoms.
Lastly, going without treatment can cause additional health problems, such as an increased risk of having an STD, preterm birth if pregnant and an increased risk of getting a pelvic infection.