What is Bacterial Vaginosis?
Bacterial Vaginosis is a condition that occurs when the vagina is colonized by certain types of bacteria. The most common type of bacteria that causes bacterial vaginosis is Gardnerella vaginalis. It is a normal part of the vaginal flora. However, the health of the vagina can be compromised when a woman has a compromised immune system, especially if she has a weakened immune system due to health conditions such as HIV, cancer, or chemotherapy. Bacterial vaginosis can be treated with a course of antibiotics, with the goal of killing the bacteria.
What causes bv in females?
Bacterial vaginosis or BV is an infection of the vagina that is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria. The bacteria causing BV live in the thin layer of "vaginal flora" that is normally present. The symptoms of BV vary depending on the type of bacteria that is causing the infection. In some cases, BV may not cause any symptoms at all. In other cases, women may experience a change in their vaginal discharge, vaginal odor, pain during intercourse, or vaginal itching. BV is generally a sexually transmitted infection.
What are the symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis?
There are many causes of bacterial vaginosis including: a weakened immune system, douching, having multiple sex partners, or having a new sexual partner. Bacterial vaginosis is considered to be a sexually transmitted disease. Symptoms of bv include: a thin, white or gray discharge, irritated vagina, fishy-smelling vaginal discharge, and a burning sensation during urination.
How to prevent bacterial vaginosis?
Bacterial vaginosis has been rising in recent years, and is more common among African-American women, who have a higher risk of developing it than white women. There are many ways that you can prevent bacterial vaginosis, and the best way to avoid it is by maintaining a healthy, balanced diet. You should also make sure that you are drinking enough water and getting enough fiber, which will help prevent bacterial vaginosis. Another way to prevent bacterial vaginosis is to make sure that you are getting enough sleep. Bacterial vaginosis is also linked with oral sex, so make sure that you are practicing safe sex. You could also consider using a barrier method of birth control, as it is the only known method of birth control that can help prevent bacterial vaginosis.