Bacterial Vaginosis Prevention

How can I prevent Bacterial Vaginosis?

An infection that usually infects the body silently, even without any outward symptoms, and whose exact origin even physicians are unsure of is best kept at bay. There are alarming statistics of bacterial vaginosis being the number one infection of the vagina, even ahead of the yeast infection, and its frequent returns after treatment. However, if you’re careful, you can always remain one step ahead of it.

Prevention of bacterial vaginosis

Almost all women of child bearing age are susceptible to bacterial vaginosis causes and of these about a quarter will have a recurrence within a month of treatment. Why this happens is not well understood and long-term maintenance treatment is not recommended. So, it’s best not let this infection occur in the first place.

The best preventive measure is to keep the ‘harmful’ bacteria in your vagina under check and prevent getting infected from others. Let’s see how you can prevent the occurrence or reoccurrence of bacterial vaginosis:

a. Avoid douche:

Douching may disrupt the fragile balance of natural organisms in the vagina by removing some of the normal bacteria that protects you from the infection. It may also change the pH of the vagina, making the environment conducive to the growth of ‘harmful’ bacteria that may spread into the reproductive tract and do more damage. Douching also increases the chances of bacterial vaginosis recurrence after treatment.

b. Keep rectal bacteria at bay:

The E. coli bacterium that inhabits the rectum can always enter the vagina through unnecessary contact of the rectum or by wiping the rear from back to front after using the toilet. By wiping from front to back, you can prevent this infection.

c. Maintain your genital area:

Keep your genital area clean and dry at all times to prevent moisture from creating a breeding ground for bacteria. Do so especially after sex with an antibacterial cleanser.

d. Avoid local irritants:

Irritants, such as bubble baths, harsh soaps or detergents, scented or treated toilet paper, feminine hygiene sprays, perfumes, deodorant tampons and spermicides not only irritate the skin, but may change the acidic balance of the vagina causing this infection.

e. Clothing:

Best is to choose white cotton undergarments that can ‘breathe’, and help absorb moisture and allow air to circulate. Synthetic fibers that hug the body are best avoided, as they collect perspiration.

f. Practice safe sex:

Since, it’s uncertain if this infection is sexually transmitted, the best way to prevent it is to practice abstinence. However, if this is not possible, have a single sex partner, as multiple partners can spread the infection back and forth. Also use condom during sex.

g. Ensure sexual hygiene:

Condom is also recommended because it reduces semen exposure, which can affect the vaginal bacteria balance. Using a vaginal moisturizer after sexual intercourse or after your period helps to keep the genital area, infection free.

h. Clean sex products:

Any sex toys which are inserted into the vagina should be thoroughly cleaned and not shared with others. Even diaphragms cervical caps and medication applicators should be thoroughly cleaned after each use.

i. Regular pelvic examinations:

Physician is your best guide to tell how often you would need these examinations. Many tests for STDs can be done during this examination.

j. Finish bacterial vaginosis medicine:

If you’re undergoing treatment for this infection, carry out the full course of the prescribed medicine, as leaving in between, when the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis disappear, will cause bacterial vaginosis recurrence.

Although, bacterial vaginosis is easily prevented, it’s usually difficult to bring yourself to practice these preventive measures. However, if you remain alert of its symptoms and report to your physician at the slightest hint of abnormality in the genital area, you’ll never need to undergo bacterial vaginosis treatment.