Available for purchase at local health food stores, vitamin shops, and online (www.renewlife.com), Ultimate Flora Vaginal Support supplies enteric-coated vegetable capsules that contain:

• 50 billion active bacteria per capsule
• 45 billion Lactobacilli
• 5 billion Bifidobacteria

Did you know that the urogenital tract (comprised of the urinary tract and vagina) is beaten only by the colon in regards to the elevated count of bacteria that thrives in the body? However, with the help of healthy vaginal flora (such as the Lactobacillus species and a smaller amount of Bifidobacteria), one can put an end to bacterial vaginosis.

We’ve always been taught to fear bacteria, yet there are plenty of known strains that actually work in our favor – ridding the body of sickness and unwanted conditions, like bacterial vaginosis. Probiotics are a beneficial type of bacteria that naturally lives in your digestive tract, which happens to also house more than 500 different species of bacteria. When you possess a healthy digestive tract, only about 20% of bacteria found are considered ‘bad.’

While promoting a healthy balance of bacteria found in the vaginal region and urinary tract, Ultimate Flora Vaginal Support effectively utilizes nine strains of bacteria to maintain a system free of bacterial vaginosis. In each container of Ultimate Flora Vaginal Support, a daily supply for 30 days is found.

Instructions

Take one Ultimate Flora Vaginal Support capsule each day between meals. The oral capsules are enteric coated to make sure the probiotics are safely delivered to the intestines.

Suggestions

It is recommended to purchase Ultimate Flora Vaginal Support as a refrigerated product if possible.

Average Price: ~$35.99

Causes of Bacterial Vaginosis

In the past, bacterial vaginosis was called Gardnerella vaginitis because Gardnerella was the type of bacteria often identified as the cause of the infection [1]. Another type of bacteria associated with BV includes anaerobic bacteria – the kind that doesn’t need oxygen to thrive and grow.

Bacterial vaginosis does not discriminate. Any woman can develop the condition, but some activities and lifestyle choices can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina. Women face an increased risk of bacterial vaginosis when they:

• Have multiple sex partners
• Have recently changed sex partners
• Have an increase of anaerobic bacteria in vagina
• Hygiene products made with chemicals that irritate the vagina
• Smoke cigarettes
• Douche, which changes the pH level in the vagina
• Use an intrauterine device (IUD) for birth control

Additional factors that can lead to bacterial vaginosis include taking medications, such as antibiotics. Other prescriptions associated with the condition include oral contraceptives for birth control and steroids. Your current health also plays a role. For example, if you have a weakened immune system or diabetes, you are more likely to face BV.

Bacterial vaginosis is often viewed as a sexually transmitted disease, but women do not contract the condition in this manner. Instead of a disease that passes from one person to another, sex simply transfers various bodily fluids that have the potential to affect the flora in the vagina. Although less common, it is important to note that women who have not had sexual intercourse can still develop bacterial vaginosis.

Bacterial vaginosis is not contagious. Therefore, sharing the same objects with an infected woman does not transfer the condition. You cannot contract BV from toilet seats, linens, swimming pools, or from touching items close to such objects [2].

Resources
[1] http://www.emedicinehealth.com/bacterial_vaginosis/article_em.htm
[2] http://www.cdc.gov/std/bv/stdfact-bacterial-vaginosis.htm

a) Vaginal Discharge:

While the amount of vaginal discharge for every woman varies, any change is considered abnormal and should be brought to the attention of a doctor. The most common symptom of bacterial vaginosis is vaginal discharge, which usually appears grayish white or yellow, and is typically of a thin consistency. It is significant to note that 1 out of 3 women will describe their bacterial vaginosis discharge as being yellow.

b) Unpleasant Odor:

Another indicator of bacterial vaginosis is the distinct scent that often accompanies changes in vaginal discharge. This odor also worsens after sexual intercourse.

An accurate diagnosis is needed to identify bacterial vaginosis because there are many different ailments that share the symptoms of vaginal discharge and odor, including some sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) [1].

c) Burning:

When urinating, a woman may experience a burning sensation.

d) Itching:

Bacterial vaginosis can cause itching around the outside of the vagina. Sometimes, this symptom is accompanied with pain during urination [2]. Itching is not considered a typical symptom of bacterial vaginosis.

The symptoms of bacterial vaginosis differ for every female. However, pregnant women are more prone to the infection because of the hormonal changes that take place in the body. The vaginal environment of an expectant woman provides the ideal conditions for bacteria and overproduction of yeast to take place.

Diagnosis of Bacterial Vaginosis

Only your doctor can provide a definite diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis, as there are other conditions that share some of the same symptoms. Sexually transmitted diseases often confused with bacterial vaginosis include urinary tract infection, vaginal yeast infection, and especially trichomoniasis.

Resources
[1] http://www.webmd.com/sexual-conditions/tc/bacterial-vaginosis-topic-overview
[2] http://www.cdc.gov/std/bv/stdfact-bacterial-vaginosis.htm

Reasons Why Women Have Chronic Bacterial Vaginosis

It is unclear why there are a high number of recurrent infections that develop after a successful treatment of bacterial vaginosis. What is known is the main reason behind a reoccurrence – an unbalanced level of vaginal flora. A handful of lifestyle habits and personal choices are contributing factors to the imbalance, such as:

a) Clothing Choices:

The kind of environment and level of irritation regarding the vaginal region can cause a reoccurrence of bacterial vaginosis, such as tight-fitting clothing. This is why many women experience a recurring bout of BV during the summertime – when bathing suit weather emerges [1].

b) Chemicals:

The chemicals found in laundry detergents and some sanitary products can cause irritation to the vaginal area.

c) Too Much Sugar:

Consuming too much sugar can alter the pH level of the vagina. As a result, helpful bacteria are destroyed and harmful bacteria are allowed to thrive.

d) Poor Diet:

Eating too much fast food or overly processed foods can contribute to chronic bacterial vaginosis. If you’re not getting enough vegetables in your diet, you may face an increased chance of reoccurrence.

e) Antibiotics:

Certain antibiotics with side effects that influence the vaginal flora can promote chronic bacterial vaginosis.

f) Sexual Activity:

The act of sexual intercourse does not cause bacterial vaginosis (because it is not a sexually transmitted disease).However, having multiple partners can contribute to a recurrence of the condition. Some believe that everyone possesses their own flora, and combining the flora from multiple sex partners can disrupt the balance of vaginal flora. Also, the types of anaerobic bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis can compromise vaginal flora. When the bacteria reproduce, your chances of a reoccurrence increase.

When recurring symptoms arise, it is in your best interest to follow-up with a second course of antibiotics.

Risks of Chronic Bacterial Vaginosis

Chronic bacterial vaginosis can increase your risk of:

• Developing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Reducing or eliminating the chances of becoming pregnant
• Seriously damaging the fallopian tubes
• Suffering ectopic pregnancies
• Contracting HIV from an infected partner
• Contracting a sexually transmitted disease (STD), such as gonorrhea or chlamydia
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) and venereal warts

Pregnant women with chronic bacterial vaginosis face more severe complications that can affect the birth of their child. The main concerns include an increased chance of preterm labor, miscarriages, overall pregnancy complications, and delivering a baby with a low birth weight [2].

Reduce the Risk of Chronic Bacterial Vaginosis

To prevent a reoccurrence of bacterial vaginosis, there are many different approaches to consider, including home and natural remedies. For example, consider increasing your daily consumption of green vegetables to alkalize the body. Eating four or more servings of green vegetables can help prevent chronic bacterial vaginosis. Other ways to decrease your risk of reoccurrence is learning effective de-stressing techniques, eating yogurt with probiotics, and quitting smoking.

Resources

[1] http://www.owningpink.com/blogs/whats-up-down-there-blog/treatment-chronic-bacterial-vaginosis
[2] http://www.americanpregnancy.org/pregnancycomplications/bacterialvaginoses.htm

Oral Bacterial Vaginosis Medication

Oral forms of antibiotics for bacterial vaginosis include clindamycin (Cleocin), metronidazole (Flagyl), and tinidazole (Tindamax), which is only available in oral form [1]. Oral bacterial vaginosis medication is the method of treatment selected for pregnant women who are high-risk for early labor. Most doctors will prescribe oral medications for BV to expectant mothers to avoid inserting drugs into the vaginal region.

Oral BV Treatments – Possible Side Effects

Oral treatments can cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Oral metronidazole or tinidazole can also create an unpleasant, metallic taste in the mouth. When taking oral BV medications, it is important to completely avoid drinking alcoholic beverages. This also includes refraining from taking non-prescription medicines, such as NyQuil. Combining alcohol with oral metronidazole or tinidazole can bring on severe vomiting and nausea.

Vaginal Bacterial Vaginosis Medication

Vaginal forms of antibiotics for bacterial vaginosis treatment include clindamycin (Clindesse) and metronidazole (MetroGel). Women who wish to avoid possible side effects when taking bacterial vaginosis medication often choose vaginal treatments. This type of medication will not cause nausea and vomiting – unlike oral remedies. Minor side effects have been reported with the use of vaginal bacterial vaginosis medication, such as a yeast infection in the vagina that takes place during or after treatment.

Vaginal BV Treatments – Possible Side Effects

It is also important to note that the oil found in clindamycin cream and ovules can weaken the latex in condoms and diaphragms. A woman is then more susceptible to contracting a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or becoming pregnant.

Bacterial Vaginosis Medication and Pregnancy

According to the Centers for Disease Control, bacterial vaginosis treatment is recommended for any time during pregnancy. Oral metronidazole or oral clindamycin is often administered during the second and third trimester [2]. These kinds of treatments do not seem to cause any harm to the fetus. However, not all bacterial vaginosis medications can be given to a pregnant woman.

For example, clindamycin vaginal cream is not recommended for treating an expectant mother. Studies have shown that the cream form of clindamycin is linked to a slightly increased risk for preterm birth.

Typical Dosing for Bacterial Vaginosis Medications

The dosage for bacterial vaginosis medication differs according to the method of treatment. Typical treatment regimens include:

• Flagyl: 750 mg (extended release tablets) once daily for 7 days. One applicator-full of 0.75% vaginal gel is recommended once or twice daily for 5 days.

• Cleocin: 300 mg orally twice daily.

• Clindesse: Clindesse (clindamycin phosphate) vaginal cream, 2%, is the only one-dose treatment available for women with bacterial vaginosis.

• Tindomax: 250- and 500-mg tablets are given in 2-g oral doses once daily for two days, or 1-g oral dose once daily for five days.

• MetroGel: The recommended dose is one applicator full (approximately 5 grams containing about 37.5 mg of metronidazole), which is used intravaginally once or twice a day for 5 days.

Resources
[1] http://www.aolhealth.com/drugs/antibiotics-for-bacterial-vaginosis
[2] http://www.everydayhealth.com/health-center/antibiotics-for-bacterial-vaginosis.aspx

Sex and Bacterial Vaginosis

Although bacterial vaginosis is not a sexually transmitted disease, prevention methods for the condition often focus on sexual behaviors. If you have a new sex partner or engage in sex with multiple partners, you place yourself at an increased chance for developing BV. The bacteria and flora from your different sexual partners have the potential of altering the bacteria normally found in the vagina. Sexual lifestyle changes that help prevent bacterial vaginosis include:

• Engaging in a monogamous relationship
• Using latex condoms on a consistent basis
• Although celibate women still develop the condition, abstaining from sex can also help prevent bacterial vaginosis [1].

Bacterial vaginosis is not transferred between men and women, and is not considered a sexually transmitted disease (STD). However, women can pass on bacterial vaginosis to other women through close contact. If you engage in sexual acts with a female, using proper “protection” and carefully washing shared sex toys is recommended.

Douching and Bacterial Vaginosis

When pH levels in the vaginal region shift, the possibility of developing BV increases. Since douching not only cleanses the body of unwanted fluids and substances, it also changes pH levels and reduces the amount of ‘good’ bacteria. Changes in the pH of the vagina can also create an environment that allows the growth of “harmful” bacteria to increase. Douching is also linked to increased chances of suffering chronic bacterial vaginosis.

Clothing and Bacterial Vaginosis

Too much moisture in the vaginal region can lead to bacterial vaginosis, which means not wearing certain types of clothing can prevent the condition from developing. Tight-fitting clothing creates an ideal environment for unwanted bacteria. Avoid synthetic fibers that typically stay close to the body and collect sweat. Choose “breathable” garments, such as white cotton panties.

Chemicals and Irritants

The chemicals found in many popular hygiene products can cause irritation in the vaginal region. Some irritants can also alter the acidic balance of the vagina. Common culprits to avoid include bubble baths, harsh soaps, scented laundry detergents, scented or treated toilet paper, feminine hygiene sprays, perfumes, scented tampons, and some spermicides.

Follow Medication as Prescribed

Although the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis begin to fade after a few days of treatment, you must use all of your prescribed medication to prevent a recurrence of BV [2].

Rectal Bacteria

The harmful E. coli bacterium that dwells in the rectum can come in contact with the vagina. To prevent a bacterial vaginosis infection associated with rectal bacteria, avoid wiping the rear from back to front after going to the bathroom [3].

Resources

[1] http://www.cdc.gov/std/bv/stdfact-bacterial-vaginosis.htm
[2] http://www.idph.state.il.us/public/hb/hbbv.htm
[3] http://www.womens-health-concern.org/help/factsheets/fs_bacterialvaginosis.html

Causes and Symptoms

As part of a normal balance in the body, bacteria are always found in the vagina. However, when certain types of bacteria start to rapidly grow and multiply – health concerns start to emerge. Bacterial vaginosis is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria associated with the condition [1].

Not every woman develops BV in the same manner. Different factors contribute to a BV diagnosis, including multiple sexual partners, unhygienic behaviors, tight undergarments, and vaginal douches.

Changes in the normal vaginal discharge of a woman are some of the main indicators of bacterial vaginosis. Discharge may turn gray, white or yellow in color. A foul-smelling odor (often described as ‘fishy’) is another symptom of BV. Redness, itching, and inflammation of the vaginal region are other symptoms associated with bacterial vaginosis.

It is important to note that these symptoms are also associated with other infections, such as sexually transmitted diseases. Only a doctor can properly diagnose bacterial vaginosis, which is usually completed by analyzing a sample of vaginal discharge under a microscope.

Bacterial Vaginosis Home Remedies

You don’t always need antibiotics and over-the-counter products to combat the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis. There are plenty of treatment options found within your own surroundings. Popular home remedies for bacterial vaginosis include the following suggestions:

a) Cold Compress:

If itching and inflammation are some of your bacterial vaginosis symptoms, a cold compress can provide relief [2]. Place a chilled wet washcloth in the vaginal region. The coldness causes blood vessels to constrict, which in turn decreases swelling and redness.

b) Dietary Changes:

Increasing the amount of fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, water and flax seed in your diet can help keep your body in a healthy balance.

c) Vinegar Douche:

Some people have reported effective results by mixing one tablespoon of vinegar per quart of warm water to create a douche aimed at fighting bacterial vaginosis.

d) Apple Cider Vinegar:

Add a couple of drops of pure apple cider vinegar to a warm bath to calm the itching and inflammation that may accompany bacterial vaginosis.

e) Avoid Scented and Treated Products:

When using products that come in contact with the vaginal region, it is suggested to avoid scented or treated options, including toilet paper, soaps, spermicides, and items used for personal hygiene. Wearing clothing that has been washed in harsh detergents can also cause irritation to the vagina.

f) Add Yogurt to Diet:

When you consume “good” bacteria, such as acidophilus, you can counteract the kind of bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis. Choose yogurt that contains acidophilus to reap the benefits.

g) Yogurt Tampon:

Some believe that you can treat an active bacterial vaginosis infection by soaking a tampon in yogurt for about 10 minutes and inserting it into the vagina. Leave the tampon in for a couple of hours, remove it, and then repeat the process. Follow this home remedy for bacterial vaginosis two times daily for one week.

h) Practice Safe Sex:

To prevent a vaginal infection, it is important to practice safe sex, such as using latex condoms on a consistent basis. Other suggestions for healthy sex practices include engaging in a long-term monogamous relationship or abstaining from having sex altogether.

i) No Douching:

Women that douche run the risk of upsetting the balance of organisms naturally found in the vagina. If certain types of bacteria multiply beyond their normal numbers, bacterial vaginosis is a common result.

j) Antibacterial Soap:

Keeping the vaginal region clean and dry can help remedy a case of BV. It is also suggested to wash with antibacterial soap before and after sex to keep unwanted bacteria away. Thoroughly dry the vagina to prevent moisture, which can create the type of environment that bacteria tend to reproduce in.

k) Choices in Cleansing Products:

The perfumes and chemicals used to make many commercial liquid soaps and body washes can worsen and cause bacterial vaginosis symptoms. When possible, it is suggested to choose unscented and natural products, such as hypoallergenic bar soaps.

l) Sugar and Caffeine:

To treat and prevent bacterial vaginosis, cut down on your intake of sugar and caffeine.

m) Clothing Choices:

Wearing clothing that helps absorb moisture and permits air to circulate in the vaginal region, such as white cotton panties, is highly suggested. Also, avoid wearing tight clothing, which can create an environment that encourages bacteria to grow.

n) Warm Bath:

To ease the irritation of the vaginal region, soak in a warm bath. Avoid using soap, which can rob your skin of natural oils that actually keep germs at bay.

o) Healthy Bathroom Habits:

E. coli associated with the rectum can enter the vagina if you improperly wipe yourself after going to the bathroom. Always wipe from the front to the back after having a bowel movement.

p) Hygiene Habits:

Thoroughly cleanse your diaphragms, cervical caps, and other applicators for medication after each use to avoid a case of bacterial vaginosis.

Resources

[1] http://www.emedicinehealth.com/bacterial_vaginosis/article_em.htm#causes
[2] http://www.livestrong.com/article/100730-bacterial-vaginosis-home-remedies/

Aci-jel contains acetic acid – a fancy way of referring to vinegar. The addition of oxyquinoline and ricinoleic acid in the cream helps acetic acid reach its peak effectiveness. Together, the ingredients of Aci-jel work to destroy and slow the growth of the organisms responsible for your bacterial vaginosis symptoms.

Instructions

Before using Aci-jel, thoroughly wash your hands. Follow the directions listed on the package and fill the provided applicator with cream. Lie on your back with your knees drawn up. Carefully insert the applicator about 3/4 of an inch (or 2 centimeters) into the vagina. To release the cream, press the plunger. Remove the applicator from your vagina. After using the cream, don’t forget to clean and rinse the applicator with warm water.

Suggestions

It is not uncommon for Aci-jel to leak out of the vagina. In order to protect clothing and bed sheets, wear a panty liner or sanitary pad during the course of your treatment. However, do not use tampons with Aci-jel, as the material has a tendency to soak up the medicine and weaken results.

When storing Aci-jel, place the product in a location at room temperature (between 59 and 86 degrees F). Do not store in the bathroom and keep the cream away from light and moisture, as these conditions can decrease the effectiveness of ingredients.

Precautions

Do not use Aci-jel if you are allergic to acetic acid, oxyquinoline acid, ricinoleic acid, or eggs. Also, keep in mind that the ingredients in Aci-jel may weaken the effectiveness of certain methods of birth control (like latex condoms and cervical caps). The cream may also make spermicides less effective. Using alternate methods of birth control or abstaining from sexual intercourse during and five days after treatment is recommended.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects associated with Aci-jel include mild irritation, itching, and burning of the vagina.

Instructions

Relagard is a bacterial vaginosis product that is inserted into the vagina. To use, attach the enclosed applicator to the tube of Relagard and turn clockwise until it screws into place. To fill the applicator, squeeze the tube to transfer gel into the barrel. Detach the applicator from the tube and gently insert it into the vagina. Ease it inside of the vagina as far as it will comfortably go.

Press the plunger to administer the treatment until the barrel of the applicator is empty. While the plunger is still depressed, remove the applicator from the vagina.

Disassemble the applicator and wash it with warm, soapy water. Make sure you rinse it well after each use. Don’t forget to wash your hands after administering treatment.

Suggestions

In order to protect the effectiveness of Relagard, store the drug at room temperature (between 59 and 86 degrees F). Do not store Relagard close to heat, moisture, or light. Storing the drug in the bathroom is also discouraged, as conditions may cause the medication to lose effectiveness. While using Relagard, do not use tampons, but instead, opt for deodorant-free pads or panty liners.

Precautions

A doctor may refrain from prescribing Relagard for bacterial vaginosis if a patient exhibits a pre-existing medical condition or is taking other prescription or nonprescription medicines, herbal remedies, or dietary supplements. For example, do not use Relagard if you have a history of allergic reactions to any of the ingredients found in the drug. Discuss with your doctor your medical history. Other instances that may prevent a patient from safely and effectively taking Relagard, include:

• Pregnancy, planning to become pregnant, or breast-feeding
• Allergies to certain medicines, foods, or other substances

Possible Side Effects

Reported side effects for Relagard are far and few between. A typical response to the medication is burning or stinging at the application site. It is important to contact your doctor if you encounter any severe allergic reactions, such as:

• Hives
• Difficulty breathing
• Rash
• Tightness in chest
• Swollen mouth, face, lips, or tongue

Dalacin V is a white cream that comes in a 40-gram collapsible laminate tube accompanied by seven one-use disposable applicators. It is the active ingredient, clindamycin phosphate, which plays an instrumental role in eradicating bacterial vaginosis. There is 20 mg of clindamycin contained per gram (2%).

Instructions

Your doctor will recommend one applicator-full (about 5 grams) of cream as your dose of Dalacin V – to be taken once per day – right before your bedtime for seven consecutive days.  Before handling the cream, thoroughly wash your hands. Remove the cap from the tube of cream and screw the open end of the applicator onto the tube. To load the correct amount of the cream, gently squeeze from the base of the tube, which forces the cream into the plastic applicator.

The plunger will push back until the recommended dose of cream enters the applicator. Unscrew the applicator from the tube and replace the cap. After selecting a comfortable position, part the lips of the vagina using fingers from one of your hands.

With the other hand, grasp the applicator between the thumb and middle finger. Insert the applicator into the vagina as deeply as it will go without causing discomfort. Holding the applicator in place, slowly push the plunger until it no longer moves. This will deposit the cream into the vagina. Slowly remove the applicator from the vagina and toss away when finished. Wash your hands.

Suggestions

When choosing a comfortable position for placing the cream in the vagina, try using the same approach as you would with a tampon – whether it’s squatting, standing with your legs apart, or lying on your back with your legs slightly spread apart.

Precautions

Your doctor may not prescribe Dalacin V Cream if you have an allergy to clindamycin, lincomycin, or any of the ingredients listed in the medication. Your doctor will also want to know if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or plan on becoming pregnant before he or she decides that Dalacin V is the right treatment for you. Certain medications may weaken the effectiveness of the cream, such as erythromycin (an antibiotic) and medications prescribed for muscle relaxation.

Store the cream in a cool, dry place – do not place in bathroom, near a sink, in a car, or on a windowsill. The heat and damp conditions of these locations can weaken the effectiveness of the ingredients. Be aware of precautions when using Dalacin V. For example, the cream contains mineral oil, which can weaken latex or rubber materials. Do not use condoms or diaphragms during or three days after treatment. Other precautions include:

• Avoid taking medicine for diarrhea (like Lomotil).
• Do not share Dalacin V with others who may have the same condition as you.
• Avoid contact with your eyes or risk burning and irritation.
• Do not take if suffering from inflamed bowels or severe diarrhea.

Possible Side Effects

Potential side effects associated with Dalacin V include:

• Vaginal irritation, itching, and discharge
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Heartburn
• Nausea and vomiting
• Redness of the skin