Bacterial vaginosis (BV) commonly referred as vaginal bacteriosis is an infection that develops with the reduction of healthy bacteria in the vagina. It is regarded that the vagina comprises of 95% of lactobacillus species that aids in natural functions and prevents other organisms from penetrating into the area. This infection is a highly frustrating condition and includes symptoms like itching, burning sensation, cramping, heavy foul smelling discharge etc. Gardnerella vaginalis and bacteroides represent the two prime species that cause such infection. The disease is mostly found in pregnant or sexually active women and at times in children. It is therefore essential for sufferers to identify the symptoms and attain ideal treatment from a specialist. Some of the common bacterial vaginosis cause includes:
Sexual activity is considered one of the major facts that is directly associated with the spread of the infection. It easily transmits through various sexual acts and physical contacts. Sexually active persons belonging to the age-group of 15-44 years is highly vulnerable to such conditions. Further women having intercourse with new or multiple partners hold extreme risk of contracting BV. In addition, unprotected sex or non-use of condoms that offer a certain amount of protection also leads to such risks.
Vaginal douching is another key bacterial vaginosis cause. Douching primarily involves cleaning or washing the vagina with medicated solutions or other prepackaged mixes that comprise of water, baking soda and vinegar. This is carried out to eliminate odor, sticky discharge, menstruation, avoid pregnancy or sexual diseases. However, the act of douching disrupts the chemical balance and causes hazardous microorganisms to grow to a large extent. It is thereby required to seek the advice of experts before using such products or perform the activity under the direct supervision of a physician.
Improper hygiene is the other reasons that make women easily prone to harmful bacterial growth in the vaginal area. It is considered that the vital organs if not regularly cleaned will increase the infection and also result in serious health problems. In addition, wearing tight undergarments, thongs, jeans cause the formation of BV. Tight fitting or damp clothes not only makes the fabric rub against the vagina but also prevents air from properly circulating in the area. Likewise, bubble baths, scented soaps and use of vaginal deodorants constitutes a significant bacterial vaginosis cause. It makes the pelvic area dry and disrupts the acid balance.
Additionally, unbalanced diet and inappropriate lifestyle of working for long hours leads to intense hormonal changes in the body which in turn enhances the growth of microbes in the vaginal cavity. Besides, the consumption of birth control drugs or insertion of intrauterine device in the uterus through the vaginal opening makes women susceptible to such infections. On the other hand, harmful organisms tend to heavily cultivate in children due to prolonged usage of disposable diapers, bad bowel movements, untidy habits etc. To overcome bacterial vaginosis cause, women are required to take up protective measures like good personal hygiene, implementation of safe sex practices and follow a well-nourished diet. Besides this, it would be best to visit a doctor on a yearly basis for pelvic examination and obtaining instant treatment.
