Remedy for Bacterial Vaginosis
Vaginal itching, burning, pain, odor and discharge may be signs of bacterial vaginosis. BV results from an overgrowth of harmful bacteria that upsets the normal balance within the vagina. According to the Center for Disease Control, BV is the No. 1 vaginal infection in women of childbearing age and is commonly diagnosed in pregnant women. BV may clear up on its own, but because complications may result, you should seek treatment if you suspect BV.
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Causes
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It's not clear why women get BV, but douching and being intimate with a new partner or multiple partners puts women at increased risk. Women who aren't sexually active are rarely diagnosed with it. Wrong Diagnosis.com points out BV is not transmitted via bedding, toilet seats or other objects.
Considerations
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It's important to see a doctor if you experience BV symptoms, especially if pregnant or following childbirth. Having BV elevates your risk for HIV if exposed to the virus and increases the chance that if you already have HIV, you will pass it to your partner. If you have surgery or an abortion while suffering from BV, you have a higher chance of getting an infection. Pre-term delivery and other pregnancy complications may result from having BV while pregnant. Finally, if you have BV, you have a higher risk of contracting other STDs.
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Who Should Get Treatment
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Treatment for BV doesn't typically include the male partner. However, since BV may affect a female partner, it's important both women get an examination, according to the Center for Disease Control.
In addition, if you've scheduled a hysterectomy or an abortion, routine treatment for bacterial vaginosis may be recommended by your doctor, regardless of symptoms. Some physicians feel treatment is a wise "just-in-case" intervention and will reduce the risk of infection.
Treatment
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BV usually is treated with one of two prescription antibiotics: metronidazole or clindamycin. Both of these antibiotics stop or slow the growth of bacteria that cause infections in the vagina. The dosage differs for pregnant and non-pregnant women. HIV positive and negative women are treated in the same manner.
Metronidazole
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Metronidazole usually comes in tablet form, to be taken two or three times a day by mouth for five to 10 days or more. You may experience some side effects, to include vomiting and diarrhea, loss of appetite, discolored urine, thick tongue, dry mouth and numb or tingling feet or hands. Call a doctor immediately if you have more serious side effects, like a rash, itching, fever, joint pain and a stuffy nose, as these may be signs of an allergic reaction.
Clindamycin
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Clindamycin comes in both a capsule and a liquid, both to be taken orally. Usually, clindamycin is taken three or four times each day. Possible side effects include joint pain, pain when swallowing, heartburn, nausea and/or vomiting and white patches in the mouth. In addition, you may have a thick, white vaginal discharge and a burning, itching sensation, accompanied by swelling. As with metronidazole, if you experience the signs of an allergic reaction, consult your doctor immediately.
Recurrence
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Like all antibiotics, metronidazole and clindamycin must be taken as directed until they are gone. Even so, BV can recur after treatment. It's important to be attentive and get follow-up care if symptoms reappear.
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References
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- Photo Credit Iordache Marius
