Which probiotics are best for BV? Lactobacilli-based probiotics such as Lacticasebacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus fermentum, and Lactobacillus reuteri are best for treating BV.
This meta-analysis involved 10 RCTs with a low or moderate risk of bias, which suggested that the treatment with probiotics alone was more effective in the therapy of BV for both short- and long-term; however, the probiotics used after antibiotic treatment was effective only for a short term.
Studies have shown that when taken, probiotics will improve symptoms for those who already have a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis. Probiotics are also able to prevent a potential infection. These bacteria work to balance out the pH level of the vagina, which makes for a healthy and hospitable environment.
How long does it take for probiotics to clear up BV? Probiotics should clear up vaginal infections within two weeks. However, it may take longer depending on the severity of the condition. Some women experience symptoms such as burning, itching, pain during intercourse, and white discharge.
While BV may go away on its own, if you have symptoms you should take an antibiotic to treat BV. Pregnant women who have BV are more likely to have complications, so it's especially important for them to get treated. Antibiotics include metronidazole, either orally or vaginally, or clindamycin (oral or vaginal).
Once BV is treated with antibiotics, it usually goes away. But sometimes it persists or recurs, often within three months, for reasons that aren't entirely understood. If a person keeps getting BV, a longer course of antibiotics may be necessary.
Researchers suggest that high fat intake, particularly saturated fat may increase vaginal pH, thereby increasing the risk of bacterial vaginosis. As you can see in the associated video Bacterial Vaginosis and Diet, most saturated fat in the American diet comes from dairy, desserts, and chicken.
To help with BV prevention, 250 mg vitamin C should be used once daily vaginally for six days after your period. While silicone-coated vitamin C is not available in the US, enteric-coated vitamin C is available in the US and can be used in the same way.
Most often, BV does not cause other health problems. However, if left untreated, BV may increase your risk for: Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV. Pelvic inflammatory disease where BV bacteria infect the uterus or fallopian tubes.
Some studies show that eating yogurt or probiotic supplements may treat bacterial vaginosis, and is quite safe. Another promising remedy is boric acid, a white powder with antifungal and antiviral properties.
Disruptive microbes have formed a biofilm
Bacteria in a biofilm are able to survive in this self-sustaining structure, making it harder to eradicate them. The ability of BV-causing bacteria to potentially form a biofilm may explain in part why BV has such a high recurrence rate.
To remedy this, apple cider vinegar can be applied to the vaginal area to restore the normal pH balance, creating a better environment for good bacteria. However, apple cider vinegar is only a temporary remedy for quick relief. Recurring BV should be treated by a doctor immediately.
Bacterial vaginosis is a common infection, and there's no way to completely stop all infections. Still, you may be able to lower your risk of developing BV with good hygiene and taking care of your overall health.
Your healthcare provider can treat BV with antibiotics; the most common ones prescribed are Metronidazole, Metronidazole gel, or Clindamycin cream. Dean points out that while on any treatment for BV, you should refrain from having sex, as intercourse and other kinds of sexual activity could lead to discomfort or pain.
If you are pregnant, it is suggested that you do have a test one month after treatment to ensure that BV is no longer present. A sample (a swab) of the discharge in your vagina is taken. This is tested to check you no longer have BV.
The primary treatment course for BV is antibiotics. However, some people may wish to treat the condition at home. Options for home treatments include practicing safe hygiene, using barrier protection during intercourse, and taking probiotic supplements. BV is a common condition and typically is not cause for concern.
If you keep getting it (you get it more than 4 times in a year), you may be given an antibiotic gel that you put in your vagina. You may need to use this for a few months to help stop bacterial vaginosis coming back. A GP or sexual health clinic will recommend how long you need to treat it.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most prevalent vaginal infection in women of reproductive age group which has been found to be associated with vitamin D deficiency.
Magnesium supplementation can also help with issues such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Evidence is lacking, however, that magnesium supplementation is helpful for conditions such as vaginitis, bacterial vaginosis, and chlamydia.
Your doctor will most likely prescribe an antibiotic medication (a pill, gel or cream) to kill the infection. These might include: Clindamycin, a cream you use in your vagina. It sells under the brand names Cleocin and Clindesse.
Several studies show that direct application of Lactobacillus acidophilus or yogurt in the vagina can be therapeutically useful. There are now some indications that the ingestion of dairy products fermented by Lactobacillus acidophilus might also have a therapeutic benefit.