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Photo of the Remarkables mountain range in Queenstown, New Zealand.

Wednesday, 26 August 2015

Common vagina problems explained: Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)


What is it?

BV is a common feminine condition in which there is a pH imbalance in the vagina, it is usually mistaken for thrush. Lactobacilli is a bacteria that is naturally present in the vagina and produces lactic acid. The lactic acid keeps the pH in the vagina low thereby keeping the number of bacteria in the vagina at a safe level. In BV there’s a temporary shortage of lactobacilli, which means the vagina is not as acidic as it should be and this allows other types of bacteria to grow. For some reason BV is more common in black women than women of other races. It is not classified as a sexually transmitted because it has not been know to present in men but best to 'close shop' until everything is as it should be.

What causes it?

The cause of BV is not entirely clear but certain factors increase the risk of it occurring including: 
·       Use of an IUD, intrauterine device, a.k.a the coil

·       Sexual intercourse with a new partner or multiple sexual partners

·       Use of vaginal deodorant

·       Douching

·       Use of scented soaps to wash  the vagina or underwear

What does it look like?

·       Discharge with a strong fishy smell especially after sexual intercourse

·       White or grey coloured discharge

·       Thin and watery discharge

How can I get rid of it without medication?

Unfortunately you cannot get rid of BV without medication.

Tried without meds but it’s still there

·       Vaginal pH correction treatment – This involves applying a gel containing lactic acid inside the vagina to lower the pH of the vagina and make it a more hostile environment  for harmful bacteria to flourish. Examples: Balance active, Canespro

·       Antibiotics – The main antibiotic for the treatment of BV is metronidazole taken for between 5 to 7 days. It can cause nausea and vomiting and a metallic taste in your mouth. It reacts very badly with alcohol so stay away from alcohol when on it unless you fancy a few days in hospital.

Copyright 2015

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