Bacterial Vaginosis Symptoms – Know What to Look For
Bacterial vaginosis is a common infection that impacts many women between the age of 15 to 45 years. The infection is accompanied by discomfort, irritation, and other dreaded symptoms. The primary cause of Bacterial Vaginosis is a change in vaginal ph.
The vagina maintains a healthy ecosystem of good and bad bacteria. Some external factors can cause a change in vaginal flora and lead to an overgrowth of bad bacteria leading to Bacterial Vaginosis. Women in their reproductive years are more prone to infection. However, it can impact women from any age group.
Various reasons can upset the vaginal balance. Some of these factors include frequent douching, scented feminine products, or unprotected sex. However, its bacterial vaginosis is not a sexually transmitted infection.
The symptoms of the infection can be extremely uncomfortable but can vary from person to person. Being aware of the symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis can help you diagnose them at an earlier stage and treat them before they become severe.
Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial Vaginosis can have the undermentioned symptoms.
1. Vaginal discharge
One of the common symptoms of BV includes thin vaginal discharge. The color of the discharge can be gray, white, or green.
If you are experiencing heavy discharge accompanied by a fever, you should consult your health care provider at the earliest. Your doctor will identify the signs and prescribe a suitable course of medication. You can also purchase BV OTC Medicine to relieve the situation.
2. Foul odor
The vaginal discharge can have a foul or fishy smell which points toward an underlying infection. Also, the smell can be strongest post intercourse or during the menstrual cycle.
3. Itching and irritation
Itching and irritation are common symptoms of bacterial Vaginosis. This can be extremely uncomfortable. This can be accompanied by redness and swelling.
4. Burning Sensation
The burning sensation during urination is another sign to look out for. Some women also experience a burning sensation during intercourse.
These are some of the common symptoms of bacterial Vaginosis. However, some women may not experience any symptoms at all.
Knowing about these signs can help women diagnose the situation if they are experiencing the infection for the first time. Your doctor will collect a sample of fluid from your vagina and send it to the laboratory to detect the presence of bacteria.
For subsequent infection, if the severity of symptoms has changed, you should consult your health care provider at the earliest. For example, if the color and consistency of the discharge have changed and you are experiencing discomfort, you should consult your health care provider.
Other signs to look for
1. Recent changes in female hygiene products
One of the causes of Bacterial Vaginosis includes the use of scented soaps and deodorant in the vaginal area. Also, scented tampons and pads can result in Bacterial Vaginosis.
If you have recently changed the female hygiene products, you should pay close attention to your symptoms.
2. Recent treatment for yeast infection
Yeast infection is another common infection impacting women. It happens due to the overgrowth of a yeast called Candida Albicans, which is naturally present in the vagina. If you have recently treated yourself for yeast infection with the help of OTC medicine, you should consult with your doctor.
3. Lack of lactobacilli bacteria
Lactobacilli bacteria help to keep the number of bad bacteria in check. If your vaginal environment is not capable of producing the required quantity of lactobacilli bacteria, you are at an increased risk of Bacterial Vaginosis.
These are some of the symptoms and other signs that you should look for. Early diagnosis and treatment with BV OTC Medicine are important to combat the infection. Being aware of the symptoms helps in dealing with them in a better way.
