Bacterial vaginosis is the most common cause of vaginal infection in women ages 15 to 44, according to the American Sexual Health Association. It is a type of vaginal infection caused by the overgrowth of bacteria found naturally in the vagina.
This bacterial increase alters the natural balance of this area and generates the well-known bacterial vaginosis. However, the causes of bacterial vaginosis can be various, so in case of detecting some of the symptoms, it will be necessary to go to the gynecologist to carry out an examination and remedy it with a specific treatment for it.
In this article we talk about bacterial vaginosis, its causes and symptoms, and what to do if it appears.
Caused by bacterial vaginosis
The infection appears when the natural pH of the vagina is altered, usually due to the increase in the volume of bacteria. When the amount of these exceeds that of lactobacilli, the natural balance of microorganisms in the vagina is disturbed and this type of infection occurs.
It is important to note that it is not a type of infection that can be spread in public places, such as bathrooms or seats, but rather an alteration of the natural pH that can be caused by various factors.
Factors that favor the appearance of bacterial vaginosis
Any element that alters the pH of the intimate area can give rise to this vaginal infection. According to the Mayo Clinic, the factors that can influence the appearance of this condition are the following:
Douching
Vaginal douches can create an imbalance since they favor the elimination of the beneficial bacteria that make up the vaginal microbiota, which is why they should only be applied when recommended by a doctor.
Having a new sexual partner or multiple sexual partners
Although bacterial vaginosis is not usually transmitted through sexual intercourse, it is true that having a new sexual partner or several can favor its appearance. There is a special risk if a condom is not used, so the risk of its appearance is reduced by always using a condom.
Difficulty producing lactobacillus naturally
Lactobacilli are bacteria found in the genital area that produce lactic acid to prevent other harmful bacteria from proliferating in the area.
But if not enough lactobacillus is produced naturally, it increases the chance that the harmful bacteria will reproduce faster and overwhelm the lactobacillus, leading to bacterial vaginosis.
Symptoms of bacterial vaginosis
When you have bacterial vaginosis, there are not always symptoms, but possible signs of this infection include:
- White, green, or gray vaginal discharge.
- Burning when urinating.
- Strong vaginal odor
What to do if I think I have this vaginal infection
If you suspect that you have bacterial vaginosis, it is important that you go to the gynecologist for a check-up and start antibiotic treatment. It is essential to follow the specialist’s recommendations to the letter, and take the prescribed medication for the indicated time to prevent the bacteria from returning.
Can I prevent bacterial vaginosis?
It is not possible to prevent the infection 100% since many factors can occur to contract it. However, you can always follow some measures that help reduce the risk of altering the natural intimate pH and suffering from it.
Wash and care for your vagina with special products for the intimate area
To wash the vagina, it is preferable to use special intimate gels for the area that have been dermatologically tested and that contribute to the balance of the vaginal pH.
This is the case with the intimate gels from the Durex Intima Protect vaginal care range. This line includes two products for vaginal cleansing, the Refreshing Intimate Gel and the Soothing Intimate Gel, which help soothe discomfort and bad odor caused by loss of balance while promoting proper hygiene in the area.
You can also use intimate products with prebiotics to promote the presence of good bacteria. An alternative is the Balancing Intimate Gel from the Durex Intima Protect range, a 2-in-1 prebiotic gel that helps to balance the vaginal pH and hydrate the area, quickly reducing discomfort.
Do not use vaginal douches unless medically indicated
Frequent use of this product without a medical indication can alter the vaginal pH, favoring the presence of infections and other conditions, such as vaginal dryness.
Use a condom during sex, especially if you have multiple partners
In this way you will reduce the risk of this infection appearing and you will protect yourself from STDs, since the condom is the only contraceptive method capable of helping to prevent sexually transmitted diseases, reducing the risk of contagion between 80 and 90%.
Its use can influence the prevention of bacterial vaginosis when we have a new sexual partner, so it is recommended to incorporate it into intimacy.
Take care of your vaginal hygiene
To maintain favorable intimate hygiene, try to wash the vaginal area daily and with suitable products.
Avoid products not indicated for the intimate area and opt for those specially designed for vaginal care , as they have been dermatologically tested and contain prebiotics that help maintain the natural pH balance of the vagina.
