With Reflexologist Nuria Weaver
Home Remedies for Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis is a common cause of vaginal infection. This is not transmitted via sexual intercourse but can be seen more in women who are sexually active. The condition is not dangerous but can have some symptoms that are not likeable. Nevertheless, you can look for some home remedies for bacterial vaginosis to solve the problem.
In this condition there is a vaginal discharge which is result of overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. It was earlier referred to as vaginal gardnerella vaginitis which was given after the name that was thought to cause it.
Causes for Bacterial Vaginosis:
Bacterial vaginosis occurs due to the imbalance of some naturally occurring bacteria. This however should not be confused with the yeast infection or with trichomoniases which are not caused by any bacteria.
According to researchers at present there is a combination of causes that must be present that leads to the development of the condition. Bacterial vaginosis or BV as it may be commonly abbreviated mainly features in the reduction of hydrogen peroxide that produces the lactobacilli in the vagina. Simultaneously the number of other bacteria in the vagina also increases particularly the anaerobic bacteria that thrive in the absence of oxygen. Other certain factors that lead to vaginosis are:
- Having multiple or new sexual partners
- Devices such as contraception
- Vaginal douching
- Recent use of antibiotics
- Indulging in excess of smoking and consumption of alcohol
Nonetheless, a woman who never had sexual intercourse can also suffer from the condition.
Symptoms for Bacterial Vaginosis:
There may be no symptoms in women who are infected by BV. In fact, according to a survey, about 85% of the women who are affected do not show any symptoms at all. However for those that the symptoms may occur, you may observe the following signs:
- Vaginal discharge which is generally off-white and may produce an unpleasant smell
- The amount of discharge can vary from women to women. Hence, if you feel the discharge is not normal can be a sign for the condition
- You may get a fishy odor from a discharge which is thin and grayish and is often noticeable after a sexual intercourse
How do you differentiate between your normal vaginal discharge and discharge in such a condition? The normal vaginal discharge will vary with consistency that may take place throughout your menstrual cycle. It is clearest just 2 weeks before you start with your monthly periods.
The counter medicines in the treatment of the condition can produce some harmful side-effects. If you cannot tolerate antibiotics then try some of the home remedies which are milder and can prove to be much better than the drugs in the long run of your life! Some of the methods that you can try at home to cure bacterial vaginosis are given below:
The main motive behind these home remedies is to rebalance the normal growth of vagina flora. Once this is achieved, you can get rid of the problem permanently.
- The first and the foremost when it comes to restore the acidic balance in the vagina is the use of yogurt. This can be done externally or orally. Plain yogurt which is not flavored or sweetened contains live acidophilus which are the friendly bacteria. You can also use them externally by inserting a tampon that is soaked in yogurt into the vagina. This is quite effective and will improve the condition considerably.
- To acidify the pH level of the vagina you can use some boric acid douche. This will prevent the unwanted bacteria to grow in the vaginal area. If you are sensitive towards boric acid then try using a medicated douche which contains potassium iodide. Another alternative is to use some vinegar douche which can be prepared by mixing a tablespoon of the vinegar in a quart of water.
- Garlic too has some very good healing properties. This contains antibacterial and antifungal properties which can be taken orally or applied directly on the affected area.
- You can also try some oxygen healing therapies that have proved to be quite successful in healing and treating candidiasis.
Prevention and tips for bacterial vaginosis:
- Include antioxidants supplement such as vitamins A, C, D and E along with B complex. This will help to treat the bacterial vaginosis.
- Avoid food that the yeast organism thrive on such as cheese, alcohol, soy sauce, chocolate, sugar and fermented foods that contain molds.
- To relax the genital tissues and reduce the irritation, go for an ordinary warm bath or a sitz bath. But do not use soap as this will leach out the natural oil which acts as a natural barrier to germs.
- If the itching and swelling becomes unbearable then use some cold compress. This will constrict the blood vessels and lessen the redness and swelling.
- Keep your vaginal area moisture free as this is important because moist areas are favorite breeding place for these bacteria.
The above home remedies for bacterial vaginosis aims to eliminate the BV symptoms and also get rid of the condition naturally and safely. Although this was regarded as a mere nuisance at earlier times but now it's known that if left untreated this can lead to serious complication!
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