For anyone suffering from Bacterial Vaginosis (BV), our vConfidence certified doctors in Baltimore, Maryland specialize in providing you the non-invasive treatment that you need. BV can increase the potential of a patient getting sexually transmitted diseases, so it’s important to get treatment as soon as possible. Patients should be especially diligent about going to a doctor for recurring BV.
What is Bacterial Vaginosis?
A number of organisms (flora) naturally occur in the vagina. Lactobacillus accounts for roughly 95% of vaginal flora. Lactobacillus is a type of bacteria that moderates the other vaginal flora to ensure that they don’t become too prominent, managing the vagina’s pH level. The perfect pH balance is between 3.5 and 4.5. When an imbalance occurs, the patient has bacterial vaginosis. Recurring BV is when the infection occurs repeatedly. 30% of bacterial vaginosis is recurring bacterial vaginosis.
What Causes BV?
BV is the most common vaginal infection in women 15 to 44. Virgins don’t typically get BV. Since BV occurs when a vagina’s pH balance is increased, there are a number of culprits that can do this. Blood has a pH of 7.4 so menstruation can cause BV. Semen has a pH balance of 7.1 -8, so intercourse can also create a higher vaginal pH level. Finally, douching and cleansers can also cause BV. You cannot get bacterial vaginosis from swimming pools, hot tubs, sheets, or toilet seats.
Symptoms of BV
The two main symptoms of bacterial vaginosis are a large amount of abnormal vaginal discharge that can be white, grey, or yellow in color and a potent odor. BV is behind 50% of cases of abnormal vaginal discharge. The odor will generally get more noticeable after sex. Less common symptoms include itching, pain while urinating, and general vaginal pain. It’s important to go to a vConfidence certified doctor to get a diagnosis because the symptoms can be easily confused with symptoms of a yeast infection, trichomoniasis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Patients with BV do not always show symptoms.
Treatment of BV
Generally speaking, the best form of treatment is an antibiotic. Flagyl, MetroGel, Cleocin, Clindesse, and Tindamax are the most common medications. Avoid sexual intercourse and alcohol when taking medication. If the BV comes back, your doctor may recommend a more aggressive treatment plan. You should also talk to your doctor about ways to manage your pH levels before you get an infection. Bacterial vaginosis can be especially dangerous in pregnant women as it can cause premature birth. Pregnant women should go to a vConfidence certified doctor immediately.
Contact a vConfidence certified doctor in Baltimore, MD when you start to notice symptoms.
Dr. Maria Canter is a board certified gynecologist and offers minimally invasive treatments in the Baltimore, MD area. She uses her education and expertise to find the perfect solution for each one of her patients, emphasizing the importance of comfort and education.