Bacterial Vaginosis

Name: Bacterial Vaginosis
SKU: 108
Price: 35.00 GBP
Availability: InStock

From From: £35.00

Unsure if you have Bacterial Vaginosis? Let us help you.

What is Bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a form of vaginal inflammation due to an overflow of the normal bacterial flora in the vagina, which throws off the delicate balance. This is not an sexually transmitted infection (STI), but can increase your risk of getting an STI e.g. Chlamydia. Although it can afflict women of any age, bacterial vaginosis is more common in women in their reproductive years. The exact cause is unknown, however certain behaviours like unprotected intercourse or regular douching can increase your risk.

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What are the causes of Bacterial Vaginosis?

The vagina naturally contains a balance of good bacteria (primarily Lactobacillus) and other bacteria. Bacterial vaginosis occurs when the balance is disrupted, leading to a decrease in Lactobacillus and an overgrowth of other types of bacteria, particularly anaerobic bacteria.

Multiple or New Sexual Partners: Although BV is not classified as an STI, having multiple or new sexual partners can increase the risk due to changes in vaginal bacteria.

Douching: This practice can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.

Use of Intrauterine Devices (IUDs): Some women using IUDs may be at a higher risk of developing BV.

Smoking: Smoking has been associated with an increased risk of BV.

Lack of Lactobacillus Bacteria: Some women naturally have lower levels of Lactobacillus bacteria, which can increase the risk of BV.

What are the symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis?

Many women with BV may not experience any symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they can include:

Fishy vaginal smell, especially after sex

Grey, white watery vaginal discharge

no itching or soreness of the vagina

Some women may experience discomfort or a burning sensation when urinating.

Many women with bacterial vaginosis have no signs or symptoms.

Is there treatment available for Bacterial Vaginosis?

To prevent BV from returning and to relieve symptoms:

Showering is better than baths.

Wash the genital areas with plain water or pH neutral soap.

Practice Safe Sex: Using condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners can help reduce the risk of BV.

Taking probiotics such as Lactobacillus, may help restore the natural bacterial balance, although they are not a primary treatment.

Our clinicians can diagnose and treat BV with oral or topical antibiotics. Please complete a telephone consultation or video consultation.

A very similar condition to bacterial vaginosis is thrush and sometimes it is difficult to distinguish between the two conditions. Information can be found on the link attached for thrush:/product/thrush/. If you are unsure of diagnosis, please book a consultation under either condition and our clinician will diagnose the condition and treat you accordingly.

Can Bacterial Vaginosis Recur?

BV can often recur, even after successful treatment. Up to 30% of women experience recurrent BV within three months of treatment. To help reduce the risk of recurrence, it’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s advice, complete the full course of prescribed medication, and consider lifestyle changes that may reduce risk factors.