Well, I must first point out that bacterial vaginosis or BV is not an infection, it is purely an inflammation of the vagina caused by an imbalance of the vagina’s own bacteria. It is also nothing to worry about and can be treated quickly and easily. Bacterial vaginosis is one of the most common vaginal complaints among sexually active women. Although it is not a sexually transmitted infection, it can be caused by a change or a regular change of sexual partner. Many women find that once inflammation has set in, it is very difficult to remove and recurring inflammation often occurs. This is mainly due to the remedies used or medications prescribed by the doctor.
If you are experiencing bacterial vaginosis for the first time, the best place to start is with a visit to the doctor. I would always recommend getting a checkup. the doctor can always detect some other underlying condition or problem. Your doctor will most likely prescribe a course of antibiotics. These will generally be any of the following. Ampicillin, Ceftriaxone, Clindamycin, Metronidazole, or Tetracycline. Now these antibiotics will eliminate the inflammation from bacterial vaginosis, but the way they do it is to kill all the bacteria inside the vagina, including the good bacteria. Good bacteria or lactobacilli are needed to maintain a healthy vagina, so once the course of antibiotics is over, it is very likely that in a week or two, bacterial vaginosis will return.
So what can be done to get instant relief from bacterial vaginosis or BV? Well, it’s all about a good education and learning how to maintain a healthy and balanced vagina. Supplementation is a good starting point. This can be in the form of Acidophilus tablets, which help to grow the good bacteria inside the vagina. Eating yogurt with live cultures is another good way to grow good bacteria. Activia is a well-known yogurt that does just that. Don’t douche, some doctors still recommend douching as a cleansing method, but this will do more harm than good and should be avoided. Remembering good cleanliness of clothes may seem obvious, but keeping the vagina clean and being cleaned properly will help keep vaginosis at bay and prevent the spread of bacteria from the anus. Another highly recommended practice is to ventilate the vagina whenever possible or at least sleep without underwear, this allows the vagina to breathe and helps prevent the accumulation of bad bacteria or gardnerella.
There are many ways to keep bacterial vaginosis at bay, and they all start with a healthy balance of bacteria.