What is bacterial vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis is an abnormal vaginal condition that is most often recognized by a fishy vaginal discharge. This is a result from an overgrowth of normal bacteria in the vagina. You may have heard of Gardnerella vaginitis. This is what this condition used to be called. It was named after the bacteria that was thought to cause the condition.

New research found that there are several different species of bacteria that live naturally in the vaginal area. Gardnerella is not the only bacteria causing all the odor. The name of this condition has been changed to bacteria vaginosis to reflect these new findings.

When all the different species of bacteria become imbalanced, you will notice a vaginal discharge that is associated with a fishy odor.

Bacterial vaginosis is not a STD. It is not passed by sex. It is very embarrassing and disturbing but it is not dangerous. If you notice an unusual discharge, you should have it checked so you can rule out chlamydia and gonorrhea which are serious infections.

Symptoms of bacterial vaginosis?

The symptoms of bacterial vaginosis are a foul, fishy odor and a grayish white discharge. The amount of the discharge varies so there is no amount that is considered "normal". There are no other symptoms. If you have a vaginal discharge that is abnormal for you, it is a good idea to see a health practitioner to rule out all other conditions. Some women with bacterial vaginosis will experience no symptoms at all.

What causes bacterial vaginosis?

Current research has determined it is an imbalance of natural vaginal bacteria that causes bacterial vaginosis. The problem is it is not possible to determine which bacteria is out of balance. Consequently, locating the offending bacteria and eradicating it is not a solution.

How is bacterial vaginosis diagnosed?

Generally, your doctor will perform a pelvic exam to rule out other, more serious, problems. A sample of the discharge will be collected to examine under a microscope. Bacterial vaginosis can be distinguished from other common problems, such as yeast, with this microscopic exam.

There is a particular test your doctor can perform called a "whiff test".  A drop of potassium hydroxide testing solution is added to the discharge. The result is usually a strong fishy odor.

How do you treat bacterial vaginosis?

Doctors will usually prescribe either oral or topical antibiotics like metronidazole or clindamycin. The problem with these medications is the fact that they are known to cause side effects including nausea, vomiting, and an unpleasant taste in the mouth.

In addition, it is very dangerous to drink alcohol during the entire time that you are receiving the medication. Also, the creams react negatively with latex condoms and may cause them to break during intercourse, exposing you to possible pregnancy or serious STDs.

As women, we know that taking antibiotics to cure this problem will almost absolutely cause another problem, yeast infection. This is why more and more women are seeking natural, herbal remedies for this problem. With the antibiotics, you are trading one problem for another, more difficult, problem.

I know you're wondering is their a better way, a safer, faster or more efficient way you can permanently deal with your Vaginal Odor and we are here to tell you, Yes there is. Read on...

Are there complications of bacterial vaginosis?

Once bacterial vaginosis is treated, the problem is usually gone for good. No special follow-up is necessary if the symptoms disappear. The infection is not transmitted sexually so sexual partners need not be treated.

If you are pregnant, bacterial vaginosis can cause premature labor, premature birth, infection of the amniotic fluid, and infection of the uterus. You doctor will probably test for bacterial vaginosis early in your pregnancy. Any unusual discharge during pregnancy should be reported immediately to your doctor or mid-wife.

Is there a safe, natural remedy for bacterial vaginosis?

Femanol, a product manufactured by MedcoSouth Healthcare, is a great natural remedy for bacterial vaginosis. It eliminates the need for antibiotics so you can treat your problem without getting another problem.