What is bacterial vaginosis and why is it caused? In this article, I will tell you the what and why of this common infection and vaginosis treatment methods.

Bacterial vaginosis is a condition caused by a disruption of the natural bacteria found in the vagina. A normal vagina has a balance of good and bad bacteria. When this balance is upset, bad bacteria flourish, and that’s when you get an infection. It is characteristically identified by a “fishy” odor and a thin white or grayish discharge. A doctor can make an accurate diagnosis by performing a wet mount test.

Some of the causes of bacterial vaginosis include the use of heavily scented deodorant soaps, “feminine hygiene” sprays, and the like. It is also associated with having a new or multiple sexual partner, although it is not considered sexually transmitted. The practice of douching can also play a role in the development of this infection. Many women use these products thinking they will help them feel cleaner, but in reality they are exacerbating the problem.

Treatment of bacterial vaginosis consists of taking a course of antibiotics, on average, for 5 to 7 days. The most prescribed by doctors are metronidazole and clindamycin. You will be given a treatment in the form of a pill or a gel or cream that is inserted into the vagina. These antibiotics can have the unwanted side effect of developing a secondary yeast infection.

Unfortunately, most women will have a repeat infection a few months after the initial onset. An alternative to this is to resort to alternative methods of treatment, which can be just as effective as the use of drugs. These methods, along with other lifestyle changes, can help stop bacterial vaginosis and keep it away.