Bacterial
Vaginosis (BV)
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About 50%
of all cases of vaginitis are bacterial vaginosis and this is
common during childbearing years. Find out the causes, symptoms and
home remedies for this recurrent problem. |
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Introduction
Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina and vulva) that is often caused by fungus (yeast infection), parasite (trichomoniasis) or bacteria (bacterial vaginosis or BV).Frequently Asked Questions & Facts
What are the
causes and risk factors of recurrent
bacterial
vaginosis?
What are the symptoms of BV?
What diet can I take to prevent this problem?
What are the symptoms of BV?
What diet can I take to prevent this problem?
Natural Remedies to Prevent Recurrent Bacterial Vaginosis
Note: Antibiotic is mostly likely required to cure this condition. Seek the advice of your doctor. Natural remedies can be used to reduce recurrent BV and to also restore the bacterial (lactobacillus) normally found in the vagina.Also see the article on yeast infection to find out many other natural remedies that may also be helpful for this condition.
| Natural Remedy | What experts say about them |
| Lactobacillus acidophilus |  (What's this?)This is an essential bacterial that is normally found in the vagina. Women suffering from this condition have either low amounts or none of this "good" bacterial in the vagina. Dose: Use 1 or 2 vaginal tablets once or twice daily for 6 days. Each tablet may contain 10 million to 1 billion live lactobacillus bacteria. Some experts suggest inserting unflavoured yogurt into the vagina (directly or soak a tampon) to help restore the lactobacillus population. |
| Boric Acid | A pH of greater than 4.5 is one of the diagnosis of BV. Boric acid will acidify the vagina, bring the pH value down. Dose: Insert one 600 mg boric acid capsules vaginally once daily for 3 weeks after antibiotic therapy prescribed by your doctor. |
| Garlic | Helpful Since garlic possess antibacterial activity it has been suggested for treating this condition. Dose: Take 200 to 400 mg three times daily. There are anecdotal reports to suggest that a peeled whole clove of garlic can be wrapped in a gauze and inserted in the vagina to help treat this condition. Do patch test first to see if you develop an allergic reaction or irritation as it is a common side effect. |
| Tea Tree Oil | Helpful Tea tree oil shows strong antibacterial properties and may be helpful in treating this condition. Click here to get dosing information for vaginal douche formula. |
Frequently Asked Questions & Facts
What are the causes and risk factors of recurrent bacterial vaginosis?
It is known that bacterial vaginosis results when:- Vagina natural bacteria (mostly lactobacillus) is out of balance
- Absences or too little lactobacillus in the vagina
- vagina pH is disturbed (too alkaline/not acidic enough)
- Douching (irritation)
- Dampness due to lack of tight or non-breathing clothing
- Antibiotics uses (changes the bacterial environment in the vagina)
- Poor diet
- Multiple sexual partners
- Engaging in sexual intercourse at an early age
- Stress
- Use of an intrauterine device (IUD)
- History of previous or recurrent sexually transmitted disease (STD)
- Prior pregnancy
What are the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis?
Signs and symptoms that points towards bacterial vaginitis include:- Itching
- Burning sensation
- Irritation
- Fishy odour, thin, milky or gray discharge
What diet can I take to prevent this problem?
The treatment of bacterial vaginosis requires the use of antibiotics from your doctor to kill off the overgrowth of other bacteria. Natural home remedies can be used to help lessen the symptoms are similar to what is used to cure yeast infections.Yogurt can be eaten or unflavoured yogurt can be inserted into the vagina to restore the lactobacillus bacteria population.
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References
Supplemental References
Created: November 13, 2009
