Symptoms Of Bacterial Vaginosis
Reporting to the gynecologist that something is not right in the intimate region is still a source of shame for many women, especially when there are secretions with unpleasant odors. But what many do not know is that the vagina is a very sensitive region and prone to present varied problems, among them, bacterial vaginosis.
Bacterial vaginosis is the most common infectious disease of the vaginal tract. Most women will have at least one infection during their lifetime. It happens when there is an imbalance in the vaginal flora.
What is vaginal flora
They are beneficial microorganisms that inhabit our vagina that, when in perfect balance, protect the entire region, including nearby organs – such as the bladder, uterus and fallopian tubes – against unwanted invaders.
When some bacteria that inhabit the vaginal region multiply exaggeratedly, some infections, such as bacterial vaginosis, can occur. This disease occurs mainly by the multiplication of the bacterium Gardnerella vaginalis.
What are the symptoms
According to gynecologist and obstetrician, 50% of cases of bacterial vaginosis are asymptomatic, that is, they do not present symptoms. In the other 50%, the symptoms are usually:
Abnormal yellowish or grayish discharge with strong odor similar to spoiled fish
Increased discharge after menstruation and sexual intercourse
Bubble formation
Vaginal itching and pain
Pain during sex
The causes are not well known. What are known are the risk factors. Are they:
Decline in immunity
Stress
Some diseases, such as diabetes
Bad eating habits
Multiple sexual partners
Use of vaginal douches
Use of perfume or scented products in the intimate region
Smoking
IUD use
Decompression of the vaginal area by tight clothing or synthetic material
Use of underpants
Treatment
The treatment is based on antibiotics, usually orally. The creams are more recommended for pregnant women. In some cases, the disease disappears without treatment. However, it is good not to expect a spontaneous cure, because prolonged infections can lead to infertility, premature labor and an increased risk of contracting an STI.
How to avoid illness
It is not always possible to avoid an infection because some situations are beyond our control. Still, there are some things that can and should be done to prevent it, such as:
A balanced diet
Consume probiotic foods such as yogurt and fermented milk
Wear cotton panties
Having a single sexual partner (you need to be their only partner)
Controlling stress
Do not sit for too long
Do a good daily cleaning with neutral soap
Do not over-sanitize the intimate region
Avoid wearing panties, daily protector
It is important to stress that the vaginal canal is “self-cleaning”. Then NEVER introduce water into it. Hygiene should only be done outside the region.
The healthy vagina is not free of odor or secretion. It has a characteristic odor and natural secretions at some periods of the month. But if there is a bad smell with abnormal secretion, you should seek a gynecologist to identify your cause and start treatment as soon as possible.
