Bacterial vaginosis (BV) details: Its indications, origins, and additional facts

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) details: Its indications, origins, and additional facts

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common condition affecting females of childbearing age, characterised by changes in vaginal discharge, burning or itching in the vaginal area, and a burning sensation when urinating. The condition arises from an imbalance in the populations of beneficial and harmful bacteria in the vagina, which can be influenced by factors such as having sex with a new partner, having multiple partners, douching, not using a barrier method during sex, being pregnant, or smoking.

The symptoms of BV can be unpleasant, with the discharge often having a watery, thin consistency, a grey or white colour, and a strong, unpleasant smell, often described as fishy. Treatment for BV typically involves antibiotics, with Clindamycin being a common first-line option, available in cream, tablet, and ovule forms. Clindamycin cream is applied once daily for a week, while tablets and ovules are taken twice daily for the same duration.

However, it's important to note that Clindamycin weakens latex, making barrier methods of contraception less effective during treatment. Another antibiotic used to treat BV is Metronidazole, typically taken orally or as a vaginal gel. Metronidazole interacts harmfully with alcohol and can cause side effects such as nausea and vomiting during treatment.

Recurring BV may require an extended course of Metronidazole or a Metronidazole vaginal gel, used daily or twice a week for 3-6 months. A new clindamycin gel, Xaciato, has recently been approved by the FDA for the treatment of BV in females aged 12 years and older.

BV can increase the risk of several health issues, particularly during pregnancy. Complications include preterm birth, low birth weight, miscarriage, premature rupture of membranes, infection of the amniotic fluid (Chorioamnionitis), Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), and increased susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Probiotics may help treat and prevent BV, as they can increase the number of vaginal Lactobacilli, helping to restore the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina. It's crucial to seek professional diagnosis and treatment for BV to prevent these serious complications, especially during pregnancy.

In 2017, the FDA approved secnidazole (Solosec) as a single-dose oral treatment for BV. While antibiotics are effective in up to 50% of BV cases, the condition often recurs within a few weeks. It's important to remember that BV and a yeast infection are different conditions, requiring different treatments, despite causing similar symptoms.

Untreated BV can also cause difficulties in conceiving and fertility complications like tubal factor infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, and unsuccessful in vitro fertilization (IVF). Prompt diagnosis and treatment of BV are essential to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes and maintain overall reproductive health.

1. Predictive analysis in medical-conditions could help identify BV early, reducing complications during pregnancy.
2. NSCLC research has shown no direct link with BV, but chronic inflammation from colitis might increase the risk of both conditions.
3. Bipolar disorder doesn't cause BV, but maintaining vaginal health is essential for women's overall health and wellness, including sexual health.
4. Macular degeneration has no known connection with BV, but paying attention to health and lifestyle can help manage both conditions effectively.
5. COPD and BV share no common cause, but smoking, a risk factor for both conditions, can influence the vaginal balance.
6. Fungal infection of females can have different symptoms and treatment methods compared to BV, emphasizing the significance of knowing the specific condition.
7. Asthma and BV are distinct medical-conditions, but good veterinary care helps manage both issues effectively.
8. Cancer and BV are separate health issues, but encouraging regular check-ups can ensure early detection and treatment for both.
9. AQ tests can measure air quality, beneficial for COPD management, while maintaining vaginal health helps prevent BV.
10. Probiotics play a role in improving digestive health and may help prevent BV recurrence by restoring the vagina's natural bacteria balance.
11. Degeneration in joints is unrelated to BV, but maintaining overall health through a balanced diet and regular exercise can benefit both conditions.
12. Vaginal health, including addressing issues like BV, can help reduce the risk of other women's health problems, such as breast cancer and dryness during menopause.

Read also: