Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a type of inflammation in the vagina due to overgrowth of normally present bacteria in vagina. Women with BV develop a temporary shortage of lactobacilli in their vagina. Lactobacilli are the lactic acid-producing bacteria which maintain the acidic pH in the vagina. Once lactobacilli are lesser in number, there is an overgrowth of other types of bacteria in vagina. There are various risk factors which increase your chances of developing BV. These include unprotected sexual intercourse, especially with multiple or new partners, use of a contraceptive coil/loop (intrauterine contraceptive device IUD), frequent vaginal douching, vaginal deodorants, scented soaps, bubble baths and smoking.
Bacterial vaginosis is not uncommon in pregnant women too. Studies suggest that untreated BV during pregnancy may lead to premature delivery, miscarriage, premature rupture/breakage and infection of pregnancy sac (amniotic sac), and infection of womb lining after delivery (postpartum endometritis).
Thin grayish vaginal watery discharge, fishy odour, vaginal itching and burning during urination may be the symptoms of BV. Your doctor will examine your vagina and test the vaginal discharge for an over-growth of bacteria. Microscopic examination of vaginal discharge may reveal ‘clue cells’, which are vaginal cells covered with bacteria typically seen in BV. Also, the level of acidity (pH of the vagina) may give a clue about BV diagnosis. If the pH of vagina is found to be more than 4.5, it is an indication that you might have BV.
To minimize vaginal irritation, avoid use of hot tubs and bubble bath. Use of unscented soaps, tampons, pads and deodorants decreases the chances of BV. Consistent and correct use of condoms and limiting number of sexual partners is another way of preventing BV. You should avoid douching the vagina after normal bathing, as this changes the normal growth of ‘good’ bacteria in your vagina, and may actually increase your risk of getting a vaginal infection.
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