Bacterial vaginosis

Additional information

What is bacterial vaginosis (BV)?

If you’re experiencing an unusual vaginal discharge with a noticeable fishy odor, particularly after sex, you might be dealing with bacterial vaginosis (BV). While it’s not a sexually transmitted infection (STI), BV is caused by an imbalance in the natural bacteria within your vagina, which can increase your vulnerability to other infections. OK, that’s the bad news out of the way, now the good news, Bacterial Vaginosis is relatively easy and straightforward to treat with the right antibiotics or pH-balancing creams and gels.

When dealing with initimate conditions there is no reason to feel shy and embarrased. At Medical Mojo what we try and do is to explain conditions in easy to understand terms without being condescending. Since we believe understanding what is happending to your body when you have these conditions empowers you to make better decisions regarding your health. It also helps to remove any stigma and dispels the urban myths surrounding such intimate conditions. So that being said, there’s no need to feel embarrassed but there is a need to get yourself checked and treatment started to return the balance to your vagina. We are here to work with you to find a solution that works for you.

Bacterial Vaginosis, commonly known as BV, is a common vaginal infection that occurs when the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted. It’s not classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but it can still cause discomfort and increase the risk of other infections if left untreated.

What causes bacterial vaginosis?

Bacterial Vaginosis is basically triggered when there is an imbalance in the environment of the vagina. More specifically BV develops when the healthy bacteria in the vagina, known as lactobacilli, decrease in number, allowing harmful bacteria to multiply. This imbalance can be triggered by several factors, including:

• Being sexually active, especially with new or multiple partners
• Using intrauterine devices (IUDs) for contraception
• Using scented soaps, bubble baths, or vaginal deodorants
• Washing underwear with harsh detergents

While BV is more common in sexually active women, it can affect anyone, regardless of sexual activity.

Recognising the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis

Not all women with BV will experience symptoms, but when they do occur, they typically include:

• A thin, watery discharge that is white or gray in color
• A strong, fishy odour, especially noticeable after sex
• Mild itching or a burning sensation, particularly during urination

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to seek treatment promptly to avoid potential complications, especially during pregnancy. It is also important to distinguish between another condition that causes vaginal discharge, thrush. A distinguishing factor is the colour of the discharge, which in vaginal thrush is typically white with a cottage cheese-like consistency. It is important to distinguish between these two conditions because the treatments are radically different, with vaginal thrush being treated with antifungals and BV with antibacterials.

How is BV diagnosed?

If this is the first time your are experiencing BV like symptoms, it is best to get the diagnosis confirmed by a healthcare professional. proper diagnosis.

Your initial case of BV should always be confirmed by a doctor or healthcare professional. They can rule out other potential causes of your symptoms, such as thrush, chlamydia, or gonorrhoea, and ensure you receive the correct treatment. Once you’ve had a confirmed diagnosis of BV, you may be able to self-diagnose future occurrences if the symptoms are identical to your previous experience. However, recurrent BV infections should be evaluated by your doctor to address any underlying issues.

A healthcare professional typically diagnoses bacterial vaginosis by discussing your symptoms and, if necessary, performing a visual examination of the vagina. During the examination, they will look for signs like a thin, greyish discharge and a distinctively unpleasant odour. In most cases, this is sufficient for diagnosis. However, if you’re sexually active, further testing might be needed since BV symptoms can mimic those of some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like gonorrhoea and trichomoniasis. This additional testing usually involves taking a sample of cells from the vaginal wall using a swab or plastic loop, which is then analyzed in a lab for signs of BV.

Another diagnostic method for BV involves a pH (acidity) test of the vagina. A swab sample is taken from inside the vagina and wiped on specially treated paper. The paper changes color based on the pH level of the sample. A pH reading above 4.5 strongly suggests BV. For those who prefer privacy, a Canestest home BV test can be used to diagnose the condition at home.

For those who have had BV before and recognise the symptoms, over-the-counter treatments may be an option. However, if the infection recurs frequently, it’s advisable to consult your doctor.

Effective treatments for BV

The most common and effective treatment for BV are antibiotics. Metronidazole is typically prescribed either as tablets or a vaginal gel. It’s crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve before the treatment is finished, to prevent the infection from returning.

• Metronidazole Tablets: Usually taken twice daily for seven days
• Metronidazole Gel (Zidoval): Typically applied for five days
• Clindamycin Cream (Dalacin): An alternative for those who are allergic to Metronidazole

Preventing BV

While it’s not always possible to prevent BV, you can reduce your risk by:

• Avoiding scented products like soaps and bubble baths
• Using mild detergents for washing underwear
• Refraining from vaginal douching, as it can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria

By taking these simple steps, you can help maintain a healthy vaginal environment and lower the chances of developing BV. Remember it’s all about balance, tipping the balance one way leads to bacterial vaginosis while if you tip it the other way leads to vaginal thrush. Your job is to be the chief negotiator and peacemaker between the fungi and bacteria in the vaginal environment.

When it comes to maintaining vaginal health, finding the right balance is key, especially when dealing with conditions like bacterial vaginosis (BV) and vaginal thrush. Both conditions are common but stem from very different causes and require different approaches to treatment and prevention.

Understanding BV and vaginal thrush

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is caused by an imbalance in the natural bacteria present in the vagina. Normally, lactobacilli, a type of beneficial bacteria, keep the vagina slightly acidic, which prevents harmful bacteria from overgrowing. However, when these lactobacilli levels drop, harmful bacteria can multiply, leading to BV. Symptoms often include a thin, greyish discharge with a strong, fishy odor, particularly noticeable after sexual intercourse.

Vaginal thrush, on the other hand, is a yeast infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida fungi, which naturally reside in the vagina. When the balance of bacteria and yeast is disrupted—often due to factors like antibiotic use, high sugar diets, or stress—Candida can proliferate, resulting in thrush. Symptoms typically include thick, white discharge with a cottage cheese-like consistency, intense itching, redness, and discomfort.

The balancing act in the vagina

Balancing the vaginal environment is crucial to prevent both BV and thrush. Here’s how you can manage and prevent these conditions:

Maintain good hygiene but avoid over-cleansing:

• Use mild, unscented soaps and water to clean the external genital area.
• Avoid douching or using harsh soaps and feminine hygiene sprays, as these can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and yeast.

Wear breathable clothing:

• Opt for cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothing to reduce moisture build-up, which can create an environment conducive to both BV and thrush.

Balanced diet and hydration:

• Eating a balanced diet rich in probiotics, such as yoghurt with live cultures, can help maintain healthy vaginal flora.
• Stay hydrated to support overall health, including the balance of bacteria and yeast in the body.

Careful antibiotic use:

• Antibiotics can disrupt the balance of bacteria, leading to either BV or thrush. Only use antibiotics when necessary and consider taking probiotics to support your natural flora during antibiotic treatment.

Safe sexual practices:

• Using condoms can help reduce the risk of infections. However, it’s important to note that BV is not an STI, but safe sexual practices can prevent the introduction of bacteria that may contribute to BV or thrush.

Treatment adherence:

• If you’re diagnosed with BV, complete the full course of antibiotics or recommended treatment, even if symptoms disappear early. Similarly, for thrush, use antifungal treatments as directed to prevent recurrence.

When to seek help with BV

• If you’re experiencing BV symptoms for the first time, it’s essential to get a proper diagnosis from a healthcare professional.
• If you experience persistent or recurring symptoms of BV or thrush, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional. Both conditions can usually be managed effectively, but recurrent infections may indicate an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
• By understanding the differences between BV and vaginal thrush and how to maintain a healthy vaginal environment, you can better manage these conditions and keep the balance in check.

Non-prescription options

• If you prefer an over-the-counter solution, products like Canesbalance Vaginal Gel and Balance Activ Gel can help restore the natural pH balance of the vagina, easing symptoms such as odour and abnormal discharge.

Order BV treatment online

• At Medical Mojo, you can easily order BV treatments online. After completing a quick consultation, our healthcare professionals will assess your condition and, if appropriate, approve your treatment. We offer fast, discreet delivery straight to your door, often as quickly as the next day.

Available treatments include:

• Metronidazole 400mg tablets
• Zidoval vaginal gel

With the right treatment and preventive measures, you can manage BV effectively and regain your comfort and confidence.