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Bv is short for bacterial vaginosis. This is an annoying infection that occurs in many healthy women. In this article, you will learn exactly what BV is and what you should do about it. In the healthy vaginal canal, there exists a balance of acids and bases, also known as pH. However once in awhile the naturally occurring balance of pH is disrupted and becomes acidic. This leads to an overgrowth of bacteria that normally grow throughout the canal. This imbalance, where harmful bacteria outnumber the healthy bacteria can lead to BV. In the past, this predicament was thought to be caused by the Gardnerella bacteria. But actually, there are seemingly a number of differing types of bacteria that may be responsible for the condition. Also, medical researchers are not completely clear on why this condition develops. So just who can get this infection? From looking at the data, practically any woman is at risk. BV is actually the most commonly occurring vaginal infection in women. Some studies cite that over 25% of American women are infected at some time. Over 15% of pregnant women carry the infection, and about 60% of women who are infected with a sexually transmitted disease are also affected with bacterial vaginosis. BV does seem to be more prevalent in sexually active females, but it must be noted that the infection has also been found in females who are not sexually active at all. There are a number of risks associated with the condition and these are important to note. By carrying BV, a woman is more prone to catching HIV if she is in fact exposed to the HIV virus. Pregnant women with bacterial vaginosis are at a higher risk for some complications such as giving birth prematurely or having a low birth weight baby. And although BV is not a sexually transmitted disease (std), it does increase a sexually active woman's chances of contracting an std, including gonorrhea, chlamydia, and herpes. The manifestations of BV vary from person to person, and some carriers exhibit absolutely no symptoms whatsoeverat all. Most signs and symptoms of this infection are unpleasant. The most characteristic symptoms are a foul fishy odor and a whitish grey discharge. This discharge covers the interior vaginal wall and so the woman will see more discharge and smell following intercourse. Other symptoms which are not as common include itchiness to the vulvar area, and burning upon urination. The odor and discharge can cause a woman to feel self conscious and unclean, even after bathing. A physician can diagnose BV by examining a small sample of the vaginal discharge under a microscope. Medical treatment will entail taking prescription antibiotics such as Metrogel, Clindacin, Tindamax, or Flagyl. Some of the antibiotics taken orally can cause upset stomach and incur other unpleasant side effects. Unfortunately, and for reasons not well understood, even after successfully taking antibiotics, bacterial vaginosis can reappear. Some woman have persistent recurring BV and still others are reluctant or unable to go to a doctor for treatment. For these women, it's important to know that there are natural treatments for bacterial vaginosis readily available. These remedies include ingredients that are inexpensive and readily available to all, either from the local drug store or already on hand in your medicine cabinet. Best of all, there are no unpleasant side effects to these natural treatments, and they are quick, safe, and effective.
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