What is bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection, mainly caused by an imbalance of vaginal flora. In recent years, with the popularization of health knowledge, bacterial vaginosis has become one of the hot topics in the field of women's health. This article will introduce in detail the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of bacterial vaginosis, and attach relevant data for reference.
1. Causes of bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis is usually caused by a decrease in normal vaginal flora (such as lactobacilli) and an overgrowth of anaerobes or other harmful bacteria. Here are some common triggers:
| Predisposing factors | Description |
|---|---|
| Have frequent sex | Multiple sexual partners or frequent sexual intercourse may disrupt the balance of vaginal flora |
| vaginal douching | Over-washing your vagina can wash away beneficial bacteria |
| antibiotic use | Antibiotics may kill good bacteria and cause harmful bacteria to multiply |
| Hormone changes | Pregnancy, menstrual cycles, or birth control pills may affect the vaginal environment |
2. Symptoms of bacterial vaginosis
The symptoms of bacterial vaginosis vary from person to person, and some patients may have no obvious symptoms, but common symptoms include:
| Symptoms | Description |
|---|---|
| Abnormal discharge | Gray-white, thin, fishy-smelling discharge |
| itching or burning sensation | Discomfort in the vaginal or vulvar area |
| Painful urination | May be accompanied by mild pain when urinating |
| Discomfort during sexual intercourse | You may experience pain or discomfort during sex |
3. Diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis
Doctors usually diagnose bacterial vaginosis in the following ways:
| diagnostic methods | Description |
|---|---|
| Medical history inquiry | Understand symptoms and sexual history |
| Gynecological examination | Observe vaginal secretions and vulva conditions |
| pH test | Vaginal pH is usually above 4.5 |
| microscopy | Detect bacteria and cells in secretions |
4. Treatment of bacterial vaginosis
Treatment for bacterial vaginosis usually involves the use of antibiotics and probiotics, as follows:
| Treatment | Description |
|---|---|
| antibiotics | Metronidazole or clindamycin taken orally or topically |
| Probiotics | Lactobacillus supplementation restores vaginal flora balance |
| avoid irritation | Reduce vaginal douching and use of irritating products |
| Follow-up examination | Follow up with a follow-up check after treatment to make sure the infection has cleared |
5. Prevention of bacterial vaginosis
The key to preventing bacterial vaginosis is maintaining a balanced vaginal flora and living a healthy lifestyle:
| Precautions | Description |
|---|---|
| keep clean | Avoid over-washing and use gentle cleaning products |
| safe sex | Use condoms to reduce the risk of infection |
| Wear breathable underwear | Choose cotton underwear to avoid wet conditions |
| healthy eating | Eat probiotic-rich foods (such as yogurt) |
6. Common misunderstandings about bacterial vaginosis
There are some common misconceptions about bacterial vaginosis, here are the clarifications:
| Misunderstanding | facts |
|---|---|
| Bacterial vaginosis is a sexually transmitted disease | BV is not an STD, but sexual activity may increase risk |
| Only women can get BV | Men cannot get BV but may carry related bacteria |
| BV will heal on its own | BV usually requires treatment or it may worsen or relapse |
Conclusion
Bacterial vaginosis is a common vaginal infection that, while not life-threatening, can affect your quality of life. By understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatments, women can better prevent and manage this problem. If relevant symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly to avoid delay in treatment.
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