Bacterial Vaginosis - Symptoms, Causes and Prevention in Pakistan

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Summary about Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is a common vaginal inflammation caused by the abnormal growth of naturally occurring bacteria in the vagina. This change in the normal flora of the vagina causes inflammation of the vaginal tissues. Usually, this condition clears up on its own, but sometimes it needs proper treatment in some women. This is the most common cause of the abnormal vaginal discharge.

Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis

The symptoms of Bacterial vaginosis are;

• Green, grey, or white vaginal discharge
• Foul fish-like odour 
• Burning sensation while urinating
• Pain and itching in the vagina
• Itching around and outside the vagina
• Pain during intercourse

Causes of Bacterial Vaginosis

The overgrowth of vaginal bacteria causes bacterial vaginosis. There is a balance between good and bad bacteria in the vagina. So when this balance is disturbed, it results in bacterial vaginosis. Here are the causes that disturb the normal flora of the vagina;

• New/Multiple sex partners
• Douching 
• Unprotected sex
• Washing underwear with strong detergents

Risk Factors of Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis occurs when the expected levels of bacteria get disturbed. That’s why the factors that influence the bacterial growth in the vagina becomes the risk factors for this condition;

• Alkaline vaginal pH (during menstruation, semen)
• Sexual activity
• Other sexually transmitted infections
• Cigarette smoking
• Douching
• Genetic factors
• Intrauterine device usage

Preventive Measures of Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis can be prevented by taking the following measures;

• Avoid douching
• Limit number of sex partners
• Use protection during intercourse
• Wear cotton or cotton-lined underwear
• Use warm water to clean outside the vagina
• Complete the antibiotic course if prescribed for the bacterial vaginosis