Bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis can cause a few symptoms, such as thin vaginal discharge in shades of grey, white, or green. It can also cause a foul-smelling “fishy” vaginal odour, vaginal itching, and a burning sensation during urination. However, some individuals with bacterial vaginosis might not experience any symptoms.

Set up a consultation with a medical practitioner if:
If you have discomfort and your vaginal discharge smells strange, schedule an appointment to visit a doctor. Your physician can aid in determining the origin of your symptoms.
Although you’ve previously experienced vaginal infections, your discharge looks different this time.
You either have new partners for sex or different partners. Sometimes, the signs of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and bacterial vaginosis are identical.
You self-treated your suspected yeast infection but are still experiencing symptoms.

Bacterial vaginosis develops when the natural bacteria in the vagina are out of balance. The term “vaginal flora” refers to the microorganisms in the vagina. A balanced vaginal flora maintains healthy vaginas. The “good” bacteria typically outnumber the “bad” germs. Anaerobes are the destructive bacteria, while lactobacilli are the beneficial ones. Anaerobe overgrowth throws off the flora’s delicate equilibrium, leading to bacterial vaginosis.

The following are risk factors for bacterial vaginosis:
Multiple sexual partners or a new partner are risk factors for bacterial vaginosis. It’s unclear whether having sex and bacterial vaginosis are related. However, BV is more common in people with multiple or new sex partners. Additionally, BV occurs more frequently when both spouses are female.
Douching. The vagina cleans itself. Therefore, there is no need to rinse your vagina with water or another substance. It might even become problematic. Douching throws off the beneficial bacterial balance in the vagina. Anaerobic bacteria may overgrow as a result, resulting in bacterial vaginosis.
Lack of lactobacilli bacteria by nature. If your vagina does not produce enough lactobacilli, you can experience bacterial vaginosis.

To lessen the risk of bacterial vaginosis:
Avoid using scented items to help avoid bacterial vaginosis. Use just warm water to wash your genitalia. Vaginal tissues may become inflamed by fragrant soaps and other scented goods. Use only unscented pads or tampons.
Avoid douching. A vaginal infection cannot be cured by douching. It might even get worse. Other than taking a daily bath, your vagina does not require cleaning. Douching alters the flora in your vagina, increasing your risk of infection.
Sex should be safe. Use latex condoms or dental dams to reduce your chances of contracting an STI. Disinfect any sex toys. Limit your sex partners or refrain from having any at all.