Bacterial vaginitis, or vaginosis, is an infection of the vagina caused by an overgrowth of certain species of bacteria called anaerobes. Normally, the “good” bacteria, lactobacilli, keep the anaerobes in check.
When this balance is disrupted, the following signs and symptoms can appear:
- Grayish, white, or green discharge
- Itching
- Burning with urination
- Foul or “fishy” odor
At QuickMD, we dedicate ourselves to enhancing women’s health through education. As such, here are some complications that arise from cases of bacterial vaginosis.
Complications of Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis can lead to several serious complications:
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): The infection can spread to the uterus and fallopian tubes, potentially resulting in infertility.
- Preterm Birth and Low Birthweight: These can cause several health problems for the infant.
- Increased Susceptibility to STDs: Bacterial vaginosis makes women more susceptible to sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and herpes simplex virus. Women with HIV are more likely to pass it on to their partners.
Bacterial Vaginosis Prevention
To reduce the risk of bacterial vaginosis, consider the following preventive measures:
- Avoid Douching: Wash with only a mild soap.
- Limit the Number of Sex Partners: Reducing the number of sexual partners can help maintain the balance of vaginal bacteria.
- Use Condoms: Have your partner use a condom to lower the risk of bacterial imbalance.
Medications for Bacterial Vaginosis
Here are some ideal medications to help treat bacterial vaginosis:
- Metronidazole (Flagyl): 500 mg orally twice a day for seven days
- Metronidazole Gel: 0.75%, one applicator intravaginally once a day for five days
- Clindamycin Cream: 2%, one applicator intravaginally at night for seven days
If you are experiencing symptoms of bacterial vaginosis, you can easily get treated online. Talk to one of our doctors to get diagnosed and treated.
