Bacterial vaginosis is not an STI (sexually transmitted infection), but is caused by a disruption of the bacterial balance in the vagina. Under normal circumstances, the vagina's pH is balanced. Most germs cannot survive in this balance. Certain situations can disrupt this balance, such as washing the vagina with soap or leaving a tampon in for too long. The balance can also be disrupted after a course of antibiotics or after inserting an IUD. This disruption creates a less acidic environment, giving certain bacteria (Gardnerella vaginalis and other species) the opportunity to grow excessively.Phenomena in womenBacterial vaginosis causes a grayish-white vaginal discharge. Sometimes gas bubbles are visible. The discharge smells sour and can even have a fishy odor. The amount of discharge varies, sometimes a lot, sometimes very little during periods. If the discharge comes into contact with semen, the odor becomes even stronger. Sometimes you experience itching and vaginal flatulence. The symptoms can develop suddenly. You can have bacterial vaginosis without experiencing any symptoms.
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| bacterial vaginosis |
SYMPTOMS IN MANAs a man, you can become infected with certain bacteria, which grow excessively in women with bacterial vaginosis. However, this usually doesn't cause any symptoms.RESEARCHDiagnosing bacterial vaginosis is done by determining the acidity of the vaginal discharge, performing an odor test and examining the discharge under a microscope.TREATMENTTreatment is only necessary if bacterial vaginosis causes symptoms. The condition is easily treated with a short course of medication. Metronidazole is usually prescribed: four 500 mg tablets at once, or two 500 mg tablets daily for a week. Metronidazole can cause nausea. Do not drink alcohol during treatment. Metronidazole is best avoided during pregnancy, especially in the first three months.
If there are few or no symptoms, it is also possible to wait for the normal balance to return spontaneously. This usually takes several weeks.
Male partners do not need to be treated simultaneously. Only if symptoms recur should the partner be treated. Women can also transmit the condition to each other. Therefore, the female partner(s) should also be tested. It is best to avoid sex during treatment. This gives the body time to recover.OTHER ADVICETry to disturb the natural state of the vagina as little as possible. You shouldn't wash more often or more thoroughly; soap can irritate the vaginal mucosa and affect the acidity. Rinsing the pubic area with lukewarm water in the shower is sufficient. The inside of the vagina cleans itself. Several products are available at the drugstore or pharmacy that can reduce vaginal acidity. |
