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Natural Solutions For Bacterial Vaginosis

Natural solutions for bacterial vaginosis can be used in an effective way as a workable alternative to OTC remedies and antibiotics, the efficacy of which can be variable to say the least!

Although a rather common female condition, the exact cause of Bacterial Vaginosis has not been determined. Symptoms associated with the condition are itching and burning in the vaginal region and an abnormal vaginal discharge accompanied by a typical fishy smell. The inflammation in the area is a constant source of discomfort, not to mention embarrassment for the patient.

Although there are antibiotics available to treat the condition, many women tend to avoid those because of the harsh ingredients in them. Plus the use of antibiotics affects all bacteria strains, regardless of whether they are necessary for a healthy vaginal environment or not. In this manner the “good” as well as the “bad” bacteria are killed with no future protective bacteria in the vagina in case of a recurrence. And one thing that can be said about BV is that it tends to make a comeback.

Natural Solutions For Bacterial Vaginosis

For this reason women prefer to resort to more natural solutions for bacterial vaginosis. Apart from being safe and healthy, these are remedies that are more cost effective as opposed to antibiotics. A popular option to get started is Golden Seal. This product is an immune system booster permitting healthy bacteria to grow. At the same time it restricts the unhealthy bacteria from promoting a healthful vaginal environment. Combining Golden Seal with vitamin E results in an additional boost.

The use of probiotic products is as natural as it gets. Yogurt is an excellent probiotic product. Containing lactobacilli, that restore vaginal PH balance, yogurt can assist in getting rid of Bacterial Vaginosis. Another of the popular natural solutions for bacterial vaginosis, yet a slightly unorthodox method, is to apply yogurt in the vaginal area. This is done by soaking a tampon in yogurt for 10 minutes. Place the tampon inside and leave for a couple of hours. Take out and replace with a new one.

Another of the popular natural solutions for Bacterial Vaginosis is garlic. A powerful anti bacterial food in itself, garlic can be consumed in a variety of ways. Add it to recipes to enhance flavor, or take as a pill if you don’t care for its flavor.

Nutritional supplements are available with tea tree oil, barberry, neem and echinacea ingredients. Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables that contain vitamins A and E.

Taking a bath soak in apple cider vinegar is another natural option for bacterial vaginosis. Put one or two cups of apple cider vinegar in your bath and soak in it for about half an hour. The vinegar helps in fighting off toxins that cause BV.

Cold water compress can be applied to provide relief, and fight soreness. Apply a  wet washcloth soaked in cold water over the vaginal area. The cold water helps reduce the swelling as it constricts the blood vessels.

Other than trying remedies, you always have the sensible option of dressing in comfortable clothing. Wearing loose fitting clothes made from porous fabric like cotton should be practiced. Avoid all synthetic material in underwear and stay away from tight fitting clothing. Let the affected area breathe fresh and stay well aerated. Make it appoint to change your undergarments regularly to avoid additional skin irritation and itching.

Trying these natural solutions for bacterial vaginosis can be a great starting point in your fight against BV.

Previous Blogpost – Bacterial Vaginosis During Pregnancy

Bacterial Vaginosis During Pregnancy

Bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy is not uncommon, with around one in every five women experiencing this condition at some point whilst they are pregnant.

A rather common condition in women generally, bacterial vaginosis occurs when there is an imbalance in the normal bacterial culture present in the vagina. This imbalance results in the overgrowth of some bacterial strains that can cause various unpleasant symptoms.

While suffering from bacterial vaginosis, there is a noticeable foul odor accompanied by abnormal vaginal discharge. This can be both embarrassing and uncomfortable. Women who are expecting and suspect bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy should look for immediate medical attention. The condition, otherwise harmless enough, should be addressed in expectant mothers as it could lead to certain complications during the subsequent stages of gestation.

Bacterial Vaginosis During Pregnancy

Among risks associated with BV during the period you are pregnant is the threat of preterm birth. Delivering a baby before 37 weeks of pregnancy is termed as preterm or premature birth. In such a case, there could be serious or fatal consequences if the baby arrives too soon. Some babies may suffer from respiratory problems among others. Due to premature birth, all organs are not fully developed and the baby might be at a greater risk for conditions like brain hemorrhage and digestive issues. Premature babies are also more prone to infections and jaundice due to weaker immune systems. Premature birth could also lead to long term issues like hearing and vision impairment and other developmental problems. Sometimes, however, preterm birth can be planned as well. If for any given reason, the mother and child are experiencing complications, the doctor may opt for induced labor or C section delivery.

Another risk factor that could be a result of premature birth is a baby with a low birth weight. Although the relationship between bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy and premature birth has not been established and experts have a divided opinion about whether Bacterial Vaginosis is directly responsible for triggering premature birth, it is a condition that should be addressed without delay.

If you are suffering from bacterial vaginosis whilst expecting a baby, there is also a greater chance of a uterine infection after delivery. Any new mother will tell you that the discomfort of childbearing is tough enough, but add to it the risk of uterine infection and the discomfort multiplies many fold.

Some studies have shown a connection between bacterial vaginosis and second trimester miscarriage. Also known as spontaneous abortion, there is a loss of pregnancy in the first 20 weeks after conception. Though there are many other factors that can cause a miscarriage to occur. Chief among those are age, a history of previous miscarriages and any infections. External factors like continued exposure to smoking, drinking, alcohol abuse and medication can also be causes. The presence of bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy at a particular gestational age may be a component in the eventual development of pregnancy problems.

Timely treatment can possibly affect adverse pregnancy outcomes. Treatment of bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy can be sought with either oral or vaginal antibiotics for curing the condition in expectant mothers. Topical medicines are helpful in giving symptomatic relief but are deficient in preventing pregnancy related complications.

Previous Topic-Natural Home Remedies To Cure Yeast Infections

Natural Home Remedies To Cure Yeast Infections

There are various natural home remedies to cure yeast infections which have varying degrees of effectiveness.  Very often, what works for one person may not work at all for another, so it is certainly worthwhile experimenting.

Yeast infections or candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by the by a group of microscopic yeast or fungi candida. There are wide varieties of candida species and these fungi commonly affect the skin folds below the breasts, arm pits, vagina, around denture bearing areas, inguinal region and nail beds.

The common predisposing factors for developing yeast infections include prolonged antibiotic therapy, cancer chemotherapy, old age, immunosuppression, poor hygiene and many more. Women develop vaginal yeast infection that is associated with unpleasant odor. In this article, you can find some of the various natural home treatments you can start off trying.

Natural Home Remedies To Cure Yeast Infections

Plain yogurt

The plain yogurt contains healthy bacteria that fight against yeast infections. Yogurt contains good bacteria like lactobacillus that maintains the normal flora around the skin mucosa and inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria. Moreover, yogurt can be used to cure the yeast infections both internally as well as externally. Yogurt can be either consumed twice a day to combat against fungal infection. Also, it can be applied topically with the help of tampon over the yeast infected skin mucosa and by gently rubbing it. It also promotes digestion and it is rich in calcium. Yogurt helps to get rid of fungal infection with its natural antibiotic action. Indeed, yogurt is one of the best known natural home remedies to cure yeast infections.

Garlic

Garlic has distinct anti-fungal properties and it is a best working home remedy in providing fast relief. Garlic can be taken either as part of food or as a dietary supplement. It works internally as well as externally. Some of the garlic suppositories are available in the market and they can be placed inside the infected, moist skin mucosa once in few hours to relieve the infection. Same benefit can be obtained by using a garlic clove over the moist skin mucosa that is infected with yeast infection. A piece of garlic can be used internally to cure the fungal infection. A whole garlic clove can be ground to a paste and can be taken with honey to avail best benefits. Moreover, the most effective home remedy to relieve yeast infection is drinking a cup of water mixed with tiny pieces of garlic clove. Apart from curing yeast infection, garlic is effective in controlling blood pressure and unhealthy cholesterol levels in the body.

Oil of Oregano

Oregano is an incredible herb with distinct healing properties. It has potent anti-fungal action as it is rich in carvacrol content. The active component of oregano oil is carvacrol that works to relieve the symptoms associated with yeast infection. Oregano oil is available as an oil product that can be used once a day internally.

Apple-cider vinegar

Apple-cider vinegar is another substance that is effective both internally as well as externally. It is a strong agent with wide range of health benefits. It is quite corrosive and should be diluted while applying it internally. It works by killing the yeast and helps temporarily to get rid of yeast infection. Externally, 1 full cup of apple cider vinegar can be mixed to bathing water before going to the shower.

Trying these natural home remedies to cure yeast infections can be a great start to the road to recovery.  If you find you still have an infection, you can try the remedy I recommend on this site.  You can find out more information by clicking on the banner higher up the page.

If bad vaginal odor is your problem, you might like to read up on common causes of fishy vaginal odor.

Foods to Eat For Bacterial Vaginosis Treatment

There are a number of foods to eat for bacterial vaginosis which can help to both alleviate the symptoms caused and actually help to bring about a cure. Bacterial vaginosis is a vaginal infection and can be often embarrassing to women during social situations. The condition presents with abnormal vaginal discharge, fishy odor, itching, and recurring infection. It can pose various health complications if it is not treated early. It increases the risk of labor and complicates the delivery during pregnancy.

Bacterial vaginosis presents with chronic, recurrent episodes in most of the cases. It is treated with vaginal or oral antibiotics however incorporation of certain foods to the diet can alleviate the symptoms and reduce recurrent infection. This article recommends certain foods to eat when you are diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis. These foods are helpful in relieving the symptoms associated with bacterial vaginosis and reverse the recurring vaginal infection.

Foods To Eat For Bacterial Vaginosis

Vitamin D

Chronic bacterial vaginosis is commonly caused by the deficiency of vitamin D. According to many research studies, it has been demonstrated that vaginosis patients with decreased serum levels of vitamin D are more prone to develop bacterial vaginosis. However, the condition reportedly improved on consuming adequate quantity of vitamin D with the diet. Hence, vitamin D rich foods like fish, milk and fortified cereals are excellent foods to eat for bacterial vaginsois as a part of your diet. Also, include vitamin D supplements every day if necessary.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E supplements contain anti-oxidant properties that are effective in decreasing the infection. Vitamin E has distinct anti-microbial properties and hence an important vitamin to treat bacterial vaginosis. Vitamin E is abundant in green leafy vegetables, fruits and eggs.

Folic acid

Include folic acid rich foods or folic acid dietary supplements as it boosts the immune system. A strong immune system prevents the development and recurrence of the vaginal infection. Folic acid is abundant in dark leafy vegetables like broccoli, spinach, fruits like oranges, flaxseed, sunflower seeds and egg yolk. Apart from fighting against bacterial infections, folic acid is also effective in preventing cancer, cardio vascular defects, birth defects and complications associated with pregnancy.

Yogurt

Probiotic yogurts are great food to eat for bacterial vaginsois. Daily consumption of yogurt reduces the symptoms associated with bacterial vaginosis. Yogurt creates a favorable atmosphere for the maintenance of flora present in the vagina and gastrointestinal tract. Yogurt contains Lactobacillus acidophilus which is necessary for the health of vaginal flora as it prevents the growth of other harmful bacteria. Hence, daily consumption of yogurt reduces the recurrence of bacterial infection.

Water

It is advised to drink adequate quantity of water every day. Water hydrates the body and eliminates unnecessary fluids and toxins out of the system. It promotes the digestion of additional food in the body. It also eliminates the food source to the bacteria that is vital to promote the bacterial growth in the vagina. Hence, consumption of at least 8 to 10 glasses of water creates an in favorable environment for the harmful bacteria.

Cranberry juice

Cranberry inhibits the growth of bacteria in the vagina by increasing the PH by its acidic action. Hence, it is advised to drink cranberry juice more frequently to reap the benefits.

Garlic

Garlic has distinct anti-bacterial properties to fight against the infection caused by bacterial vaginosis.

As you can see from the list above, there are many different beneficial foods to eat for bacterial vaginosis.  However, dietary modification is just one part of a good natural treatment strategy and you might wish to take a look at the strategy I recommend on this website, 3 Days To Bacterial Vaginosis Relief. This will teach you exactly how you can cure bacterial vaginosis.

What To Do About Bacterial Vaginosis

You are certainly not alone if you are wondering what to do about bacterial vaginosis as it is a very common infection indeed. Bacterial Vaginosis is a condition in which the normal balance of bacterial culture present in a woman’s vagina is disturbed. The condition involves the over growth of certain kinds of bacteria that cause different unpleasant symptoms. The condition also referred to as BV is the most common vaginal infection in women of child bearing age who are sexually active.

The most noticeable symptom of BV is perhaps the foul odor. This is accompanied by abnormal vaginal discharge that can be either white or gray and thin or foamy. In addition, a burning sensation during urination and itching all around the vaginal area can also be experienced.

What To Do About Bacterial Vaginosis

If you suspect or experience any BV symptoms, consult with your health care professional to perform a lab test. The test is conducted on a sample of vaginal fluid to check the growth rate of bacteria associated with the condition. You can also schedule a vaginal exam to get a diagnosis for Bacterial Vaginosis.

Treatment of Bacterial Vaginosis is highly recommended for expectant women as the condition can be a forerunner for complications in later stages of pregnancy. There could be a premature birth or a baby with very low birth weight.

Bacterial Vaginosis is treatable with prescription antibiotics. There are two different antibiotics that are usually recommended. Metronidazole can be taken in an oral form as a pill or as a vaginal gel –Metronidazole gel. The oral medication can sometimes cause minor but unpleasant side effects but is considered to be the most effective treatment. Gels do not typically cause side effects but yeast vaginitus could occur by using the medication.

Another option is the vaginal clindamycin cream.  All options can be used with both pregnant and non pregnant subjects but the dosage will vary accordingly.

To schedule a checkup with your doctor consider a few things to get the most accurate results. Try to have an appointment when you are not on your period and do not douche or use any vaginal deodorant sprays at least 24 hours prior to your appointment. Douching is never recommended by experts and sprays will only mask odors that might otherwise be important for diagnosis. Moreover, avoid having sex 24 hours before your checkup.

Since there are multiple species of bacteria responsible for Bacterial Vaginosis, finding a solution to the problem is difficult. Furthermore, the condition is infamous for recurring in spite of medication. More than half the women experience the condition again within 12 months of the treatment. In other cases, it can clear up without treatment and will resolve without complications.

When looking at what to do about bacterial vaginosis, don’t forget that you can consider natural treatments, the remedy I recommend on this blog (link in the sidebar) is an excellent way to deal with the condition in the long term.

In such an unpredictable scenario, prevention is possibly the best option. Take some good sense measures to avoid Bacterial Vaginosis by washing the vaginal area daily with a mild soap. Opt for comfortable clothing and preferably cotton lined undergarments. Avoid douching at all costs since it can remove some of the normal vaginal bacteria needed for protection from the condition. Finish your medication even after the symptoms go away. Go for regular pelvic exams and talk to your doctor frankly without getting embarrassed.

There is much you can do when worried about bacterial vaginosis, but the key is certainly prompt, decisive action rather than allowing the problem to worsen.

For further reading-Home Remedies For Bacterial Infection In Women