What is Bacterial Vaginosis?

Are you experiencing vaginal conditions out of the ordinary? You might be among the few women that recognize bacterial vaginosis symptoms. Most women that are diagnosed with this condition rarely pick up its signs. Even medical professionals are sometimes unsure of the causes and symptoms.

Bacterial vaginosis is a vaginal infection usually caused by anaerobic bacteria, especially by Gardnerella or Mobiluncus. Obvious signs include grayish, watery discharge and a strong fishy smell.

Know this:

• Symptoms mimic those associated with vaginal yeast infections.
• Causes are still not concrete, but some have been identified.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 16 percent of American women are affected.

Unnatural conditions have been linked to bacterial vaginosis. The vaginal area is sensitive to chemicals. Any kind of perfumes and dyes should be avoided. Products containing chemicals can include laundry detergent, fabric softener, body soaps, colored panties, tampons, sanitary pads, vaginal wipes and toilet paper. Using unscented, unbleached products without dye is recommended.

Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis

Even though most women do not experience bacterial vaginosis symptoms, there are some obvious signs you should be aware of:

• Thin, white or gray discharge
• Excessive discharge
• Foul or unpleasant odor
• Irritation or swelling of the vaginal opening
• Pain during sex

Natural Remedies for Bacterial Vaginosis

Doctors typically prescribe antibiotics for bacterial vaginosis. Since antibiotics kill beneficial bacteria, along with the bad bacteria, this can lead to a bacterial imbalance which commonly leads to yeast infections.

According to Medical News Today, even though antibiotic medication is effective in up to 90% of cases, 25% of women will develop bacterial vaginosis again within four weeks.

Antibiotics only temporarily alleviate symptoms, because they do not address the root issue: a bacterial imbalance.

As with all health conditions, finding a natural remedy for bacterial vaginosis is recommended before introducing chemical-based options.

Probiotics have been known to restore and maintain healthy levels of beneficial bacteria.* Probiotics are available through food sources or capsule-form dietary supplements. Foods containing probiotics include tempeh, miso, kefir, fermented cabbage and probiotic modified foods. However, these foods may be difficult to find, and you would need to consume several servings daily to gain the benefits of probiotics.

Probiotic supplements can be more convenient.* They have a much longer shelf-life and one capsule usually provides a substantial amount of probiotics to promote optimum health.*

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