Is Bacterial Vaginosis A Sexually Transmitted Infection
BV is not classified as an STI as you do not have to be sexually active to contract the infection. That being said, it is more likely to occur in women who are sexually active. Those who have multiple sexual partners are also at higher risk as there is a greater chance of a bacterial imbalance.
If you are sexually active, the only way to completely stop the spread of STIs is to use a condom and take regular tests.
Section : Experiences And Perspectives Around Acceptability And Use Of Treatment For Bacterial Vaginosis
Prior experience of treatment for bacterial vaginosis
Only one woman had never experienced using the lactic acid gel before and she was randomised to the metronidazole antibiotic tablets. She was not aware that this was a treatment option. On the contrary and unusually, one woman had only ever taken the lactic acid gel to treat BV before . Another woman simultaneously sought treatment at two healthcare facilities, taking both the lactic acid gel and antibiotics at the same time. No women described previously taking alternative BV treatment types such as topical metronidazole gel or clindamycin cream.
In accordance with the acceptability of health interventions framework, we established that the following constructs aligned with our findings .
What Are The Risks Of Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis itself is generally harmless and often clears up on its own. However, it can have more serious complications in pregnant women, causing them to suffer from urinary tract infections and increasing the risk of miscarriage or early delivery. BV can also be harmful if it occurs in combination with a sexually transmitted disease. If you are experiencing symptoms of BV, it is best to consult a doctor as soon as possible.
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Antibiotics Are Used To Treat Bv
An antibiotic called metronidazole can be used to treat the infection. If your doctor prescribes metronidazole you will need to:
- Take the antibiotic twice a day for seven days.
- Take the tablets after meals this can reduce the nausea and upset stomach that is sometimes associated with metronidazole.
- Avoid drinking alcohol during treatment.
Your doctor can prescribe a vaginal cream if you are unable to take metronidazole. Clindamycin is applied to the vagina for seven nights.
Is Bacterial Vaginosis Sexually Transmitted
No – BV can affect any woman, including those who do not have sex. However, BV is more common amongst sexually active women than amongst non-sexually active women.
A woman can’t ‘catch’ BV from intercourse with a man, but BV is more likely to develop after a change in sexual partner, as – for reasons we don’t really understand – this can affect the balance of normal germs in the vagina.
Women who have sex with other women can pass each other the condition. This is probably because the anaerobic bacteria on the body of the woman with BV have become particularly good at overwhelming the lactobacilli, and are able to take the opportunity to spread further..
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How Do I Treat Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial Vaginosis is easily treatable with a short course of antibiotics, specifically Metronidazole, which is available to buy safely and discreetly at Cloud Pharmact. You can also treat BV with a single-dose antibiotic or a gel, but the short course is preferred as there are fewer side effects and its much harder to administer a dose wrong than with the gel.
Once the infection has cleared, there are a number of things you can do to prevent BV from coming back again. You should avoid synthetic materials, whether that be fabrics or cleaning products. Try to stick to loose cotton clothing, gentle washing detergents and natural products to wash your body and vagina with. To avoid Bacterial Vaginosis, avoid excessive vaginal cleaning , maintain good hygiene and always practise safe sex.
Is There A Cure For Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis can be easily treated with an internal gel. Canesbalance starts working immediately to relive the unpleasant intimate odour and its clinically proven to treat the symptoms of BV effectively. It contains triple benefit formula that will help you treat your bacterial vaginosis symptoms effectively.
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What Triggers Bacterial Vaginosis
Sexual activity
Those who have regular sex are more susceptible to BV. The risk increases with a large number of sex partners.
Intrauterine device
As a foreign object, both the copper and hormonal IUDs can trigger BV. The individual parts of the device may affect the balance of bacteria in the vagina.
Smoking
A lesser-known risk factor is smoking. Studies have shown that the chemicals in cigarettes alter the bacteria living in the vagina, increasing the chance of BV occurring.
Over-cleaning
You should not wash inside your vagina using household products as douching can cause an infection. The vagina naturally cleans itself. If you wish to clean the area around the vulva, use water and of unperfumed soap.
Foreign objects
Along with the IUD, tampons and other foreign objects can affect the natural bacteria in the vagina.
Personal hygiene
Not wiping after the toilet, wiping incorrectly and not changing your underwear often can all trigger BV.
When It Isn’t Bv
Bacterial vaginosis isn’t the only reason you may experience an unusual smell down there. There are a number of different bacteria that may throw off your naturally balanced pH and cause an unpleasant odor. Maintaining your pH balance keeps the naturally occurring bacteria and yeasts in the vagina living in harmony together, but when it gets thrown off you can become more prone to infection.
Taking antibiotics or having unprotected sex can expose you to new bacteria or increase the chance of your good bacteria being overrun by the bad bugs that cause bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections. STIs like Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and Trichomoniasis can all also lead to a sour or “fishy” smell. The good news? Every one of these conditions are surprisingly easy to treat. When you catch them early and treat them with properly prescribed medication, they generally clear up quickly.
Even if you experience recurrent BV, there’s no reason it should keep you from your life. Use wisp to get fast online treatment and get your meds delivered to your door, or sent to your local pharmacy for same-day pick up. If you have additional questions about your BV, take our Symptoms Quiz to connect with one of wisp’s healthcare professionals. We’re happy to help you find the right treatment to clear up your BV and stop it from coming back.
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When Should I Have Treatment For Bacterial Vaginosis
The body is often very good at getting back its own balance. The disruption in the balance of vaginal germs that causes BV may correct naturally, with time. So, if you have no symptoms or only mild symptoms, you may not need any treatment, particularly if you take some of the general healthy steps above.
You normally need treatment for BV if it is causing symptoms, or if the characteristic smell is noticeable to you. If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or about to have a gynaecological procedure then you may be advised to get treatment for BV.
PregnancyIf you are pregnant and you are found to have BV then you will usually be offered antibiotic treatment with oral metronidazole .
If you are trying to conceive and you think you may have BV, it is a good idea to try to eradicate the BV through natural methods or treatment prior to conceiving. If you have symptoms then you should discuss having antibiotic treatment with your doctor.
Termination of pregnancyIf you are found to have BV and are undergoing a termination of pregnancy, treatment with antibiotics may be advised even if you do not have any symptoms. This is because there is otherwise a risk of BV causing infection of the womb or pelvis after the procedure. This could lead to later fertility problems.
Time To Get Down With Yourself
Lately, it seems like everyone out there is looking for an over the counter BV treatment or home remedy for Bacterial Vaginosis. Thats because the word is out that BV increases your risk of contracting and spreading STDs, like HIV, Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. The good news is that wisp offers quick and easy access to antibiotics for how to treat BV that get the job done right the first time. If you are wondering how to cure BV at home, online prescription Metronidazole helps you get healthy without having to go in to a doctors officeplus you dont need health insurance just to find treatment for bacterial vaginosis.
BV increases your risk of contracting and spreading STDs, like HIV, Chlamydia and Gonorrhea.
CDC.GOV
If you want to know how to get rid of BV without antibiotics, weve got you covered too! While taking antibiotics for BV is extremely effective when prescribed by a doctor, patients will often receive Boric Acid to take along with it, which helps restore a good PH balance to the vagina. Using Boric Acid to treat Bacterial Vaginosis without Antibiotics is not considered as effective as using both, but it may get the job done for milder BV symptoms. Metronidazole is best at clearing up acute BV symptoms, while Boric Acid helps the body restore itself to defend against PH imbalance in the first place.
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Bacterial Vaginosis In Pregnancy
If you develop bacterial vaginosis in pregnancy, there’s a small chance of complications, such as premature birth or miscarriage.
But BV causes no problems in the majority of pregnancies.
Speak to a GP or your midwife if you’re pregnant and your vaginal discharge changes.
Page last reviewed: 22 November 2018 Next review due: 22 November 2021
Antibiotics For Bacterial Vaginosis
Oral antibiotics are the first-choice treatment in pregnant women with BV.
Metronidazole tabletsA full course of metronidazole tablets is the common treatment. Metronidazole is an antibiotic. This clears BV in most cases. It is important to read the leaflet that comes with these tablets for the full list of possible side-effects and cautions. The main points to note about metronidazole include:
- The usual dose is 400-500 mg twice a day for 5-7 days. A single dose of 2 grams of metronidazole is an alternative, although this may be less effective and may cause more side-effects. It is important to finish the course you have been prescribed, and not to miss any tablets.
- Some people feel sick or may be sick when they take metronidazole. This is less likely to occur if you take the tablets straight after food. A metallic taste is also a common side-effect.
- Do not drink any alcohol while taking metronidazole, nor for 48 hours after stopping treatment. The interaction of metronidazole with alcohol can cause severe sickness and vomiting, and may also cause flushing and an increased pulse rate.
- Metronidazole can get into breast milk in small amounts but will not harm your baby, although it may make the milk taste different. The manufacturer recommends that if you are breastfeeding you should take the 5- to 7-day lower dose course of metronidazole rather than the single large dose.
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What Are The Complications Of Untreated Bacterial Vaginosis
If not treated promptly, BV can lead to further complications. These can be more serious and may have life-long and distressing effects on both your health and the health of any unborn child.
If you do not treat the condition, you will be at an increased risk of contracting STIs such as HIV, genital herpes, gonorrhea and chlamydia. It is then possible for these to be passed on to a child during pregnancy and labour.
Bacterial vaginosis can also cause pelvic inflammatory disease . PID is where the infection spreads from the vagina to your upper genital tract, including your ovaries, uterus and fallopian tubes. This condition has the potential to make you infertile and can cause pregnancy-related conditions, such as ectopic pregnancies.
The best way to prevent BV from spreading to other organs is to treat it quickly. If it does spread, you can expect other symptoms such as pelvic and abdomen pain and heavy bleeding.
Should My Partner Be Treated For Bacterial Vaginosis
There is no evidence that treating a male sexual partner prevents his female sexual partner from developing BV. One small trial looked at whether using a sterilising alcohol gel on the penis protected their partners against BV – but the gel appeared to make BV more, rather than less, common in the women.
If you have a female partner then it does appear that treating her for BV at the same time as you – even if she doesn’t have symptoms – will prevent recurrence .
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Bacterial Vaginosis : What It Is And How To Treat It
Thankfully, treating bacterial vaginosis doesnt have to be scary or overwhelming. In most cases, it can be treated with antibiotics , and it should clear up quickly. It may reoccur within 3-12 months, so additional treatments may be needed.
If youre experiencing some of the symptoms listed above and youd feel more comfortable getting an official diagnosis, request a private consultation with CallonDoc, and a virtual doctor will help you to better understand what youre dealing with, all within the comfort of your own home. The sooner you seek out treatment for bacterial vaginosis, the sooner the symptoms will subside. Dont wait to schedule your virtual consultation.
How Do I Take Metronidazole Tablets
You take metronidazole tablets whole with water, during or after meals. Always follow the instructions from your doctor on how to take metronidazole as these instructions are specific to your condition.
It is essential that you do not drink alcohol while taking metronidazole or for 48 hours after you have finished your course. Drinking alcohol whilst taking metronidazole can cause unpleasant side effects such as being sick, headaches, hot flushes, and stomach pains.
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What Does Bv Smell Like
While some women may not experience a smell, others have reported a fishy-like smell and foul oder from the vagina. For many women, the smell is accompanied by itching, abnormal gray discharge and burning. Because BV is caused by bacteria it is typically treated with antibiotics. You can get antibiotics prescribed online for BV through PlushCare.
Why Do I Keep Getting Bv
It seems like every time you think you’ve cleared bacterial vaginosis symptoms for good, they find a way back into your lifeunpleasant, uncomfortable, and unacceptable! If you are one of the 22 million women in the United States experiencing the symptoms of BV, like itchiness, unusual discharge, or odor, it can be awkward, to say the least. But the one thing you don’t need to feel is shame, especially since reoccurring BV is so commonparticularly within three months of your original diagnosis. According to a 2006 study, over 50% of people who get BV end up experiencing it again over the next 12 months. Definitely not something you need in your life.
While there are several reasons as to why your BV may keep coming back, there are different things you can do to help it hit the road for good. Read on to learn more about tackling recurring BV and what you can do to live BV-free.
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How Can You Get Bacterial Vaginosis Treatment Online
To order a prescription from Superdrug Online Doctor, fill in our brief assessment questionnaire and select your preferred treatment. After you have placed your order, our online doctor will review your assessment and determine whether this is the best treatment option for you. Once your prescription has been approved, you will receive your prescription via post.
Your Superdrug Online Doctor prescription allows you to buy your BV treatment at any pharmacy in Ireland.
How Bv Is Spread
Although it is not clear how BV is transmitted, it is more common in women who are sexually active. It sometimes develops soon after intercourse with a new partner. Women who have female sexual partners may be at higher risk than women who have sex with only male partners. Research has not conclusively found a link between BV and specific sexual practices or acts. However, recent evidence supports the use of condoms to reduce the risk of this infection.
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Why Use Boric Acid Suppositories
Wisp’s Boric Acid suppositories are specially formulated to promote vaginal acidity and healthy flora to help restore your natural balance. Use this suppository to complement prescription medication, or take it on it’s own, for UTI, Bacterial Vaginosis or Yeast Infectionso you feel fresh*
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Which Ingredients Can Cause An Allergic Reaction
Metronidazole does contain lactose as one of its inactive ingredients, so if you are intolerant to lactose you might experience some uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms. Other than that, metronidazole is not known to cause severe allergic reactions in people unless you have a hypersensitivity to this medication.
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Will I Get Bacterial Vaginosis Again
BV often recurs, usually within a few months of treatment – although if any of the behaviours which can trigger it apply to you then it may be less likely to recur if you avoid these things.
BV often returns after it has been treated. No good way has been found yet of preventing this from happening.
If you keep getting BV symptoms, your doctor will do some tests to be absolutely sure you have got BV and not any other infection. If it turns out to be definitely BV, a different antibiotic to the one you have taken previously may be tried. Occasionally regular preventative use of an antibiotic vaginal gel may be advised.
If you are using an IUCD for contraception, it may be advised that you consider having this removed.
