Bacterial vaginosis (also known as BV) is the name of a medical concern that affects many women at some point in their life. The condition develops when the normal balance of bacteria naturally found in the vagina becomes disrupted. An overgrowth of certain strains of bacteria causes symptoms and is especially harmful to pregnant women.
Causes and Symptoms
While bacteria are always present in the vagina, there is a certain balance that must be upheld. When certain types of bacteria grow out of control, bacterial vaginosis becomes a possibility. A wide range of factors may contribute to a diagnosis of BV, including having multiple sex partners, smoking tobacco, and vaginal douching [1].
Symptoms of bacterial vaginosis include abnormal vaginal discharge, which may appear gray, white, or yellow. An unpleasant odor (similar to a ‘fishy’ scent) often accompanies changes in vaginal discharge. Discharge and odor are two of the most common symptoms associated with BV. Other possible symptoms include redness, itching, and inflammation of the vaginal region.
The symptoms of bacterial vaginosis are also similar to other infections, including sexually transmitted diseases, such as gonorrhea and trichomoniasis. The only way to identify a woman infected with bacterial vaginosis is to have a doctor conduct an examination. Typically, this is done by analyzing a sample of vaginal discharge– usually under a microscope.
Bacterial Vaginosis Natural Remedies
You don’t always have to rely on prescription medications and antibiotics to treat a case of BV. The natural world of medicine is full of options that do not use chemicals and other drugs as treatment. To explore the benefits of natural remedies for bacterial vaginosis, consider the following suggestions:
a) Dietary Changes:
Increase your consumption of fresh vegetables, fruit, grains, and flax seed, to treat bacterial vaginosis. Don’t forget to drink plenty of fresh water to flush out unwanted bacteria from the body.
b) “Good Bacteria”:
It is suggested to eat what is considered as ‘good’ bacteria to fight a bacterial vaginosis infection. Yogurt is an effective choice in treating the condition.
c) Boric Acid Suppositories:
Some pharmacies and health food stores carry boric acid suppositories, which have been linked to treating bacterial vaginosis. Studies have shown that boric acid in the vagina has an effect on absorbing naturally occurring ammonia in the region, which encourages bacteria to thrive [2]. Consider using boric acid suppositories as treatment for 14 days to fight chronic bacterial vaginosis.
d) Kefir Milk:
Adding kefir milk to your diet can help fight bacterial vaginosis because it is a cultured milk product that contains ‘good’ bacteria and helpful yeast.
e) Foods with Acidophilus:
Eating foods that contain acidophilus can help treat bacterial vaginosis. Examples include yogurt, enriched milk, and some soy products, such as miso and tempeh.
f) Coldwater Compress:
To fight the swelling and itching that sometimes comes with bacterial vaginosis, consider using a cold compress. Apply washcloths wet with cold water over the vaginal region. This remedy works by constricting blood vessels and making the area less swollen and red.
g) Apple Cider Vinegar:
Soaking in a warm bath with a couple of added drops of pure apple cider vinegar can ease the itching and inflammation that may develop with BV.
h) Probiotics:
You can partially open a probiotics capsule and insert it into the vagina to encourage the growth and reproduction of “good” bacteria.
i) Yogurt Tampon:
Some women claim to have treated their bacterial vaginosis by inserting a tampon that had been soaked in yogurt for about 10 minutes. It is suggested to leave the tampon in the vagina for a few hours, remove it, and then repeat the remedy again. Continue this line of treatment two times per day for a week.
j) Vitamins:
Vitamins A, B complex, C, D and E contain antioxidants, which can help in treating bacterial vaginosis.
k) Vitamin E Cream:
Topical applications of vitamin E can help relieve itching. You may choose between prepared creams and powdered capsules to ease symptoms of BV.
l) Warm Bath:
Fill a tub with warm water and soak to soothe an irritated vaginal region.
Resources
[1] http://www.emedicinehealth.com/bacterial_vaginosis/article_em.htm#causes
[2] http://www.owningpink.com/blogs/whats-up-down-there-blog/treatment-chronic-bacterial-vaginosis
