Welcome to my course! Steps in preventing bacterial vaginosis.
***In this course only nonpregnant women with initial bacterial vaginosis will be discussed.
Bacterial vaginosis is the most common vaginal infection among women of reproductive age worldwide. Bacterial vaginosis cost an annual estimate of over 4 billion dollars. Bacterial vaginosis occurs when there is a disruption in the vaginal flora. Some of the symptoms include abnormal, malodorous vaginal discharge.
In this course we will go into detail on what happens to the vaginal flora, vaginal pH, and lactobacillus (the bacteria that keeps the vaginal pH in balance).
There are certain practice that trigger bacterial vaginosis such as certain feminine practices such as douching. Other practice such as new sex partners and/or multiple sex partners.
Currently, the FDA recommends antibiotics in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis. Medical treatments will be described including side effects:
1. metronidazole
2. clindamycin
Complementary treatment will be described. The FDA has not yet approved any complementary treatments, but studies are underway for certain products. Some of the complementary products that will be described include:
1. probiotics
2. garlic
3. tea tree oil
4. thyme essential oil
If you desire herbal treatments for bacterial vaginosis please see an experienced herbalist or Naturopathic Provider.
Bacterial vaginosis is usually asymptomatic and resolves overtime. There are some possible complications that can occur in women with bacterial vaginosis. The disruption of the vaginal flora can put women with bacterial vaginosis at greater risk for sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea. Both of these sexually transmitted infections can cause damage to the reproductive tract.
Bacterial vaginosis can be stressful and embarrassing for some women especially when vaginal odor is present. There are steps that women can take to reduce risk factors such as limiting sex partners and not smoking. Steps in prevention will be described.
Enjoy the class!
Dr. Monica Maldonado, WHNP-BC
