Bacterial Vaginosis

Description

A mild infection of the vagina caused by bacteria, bacterial vaginosis is characterized by vaginal discharge with a foul odor. It occurs when the balance of good and bad bacteria in the vagina is upset, and the bad takes over. The infection cannot be caught from one person to another, but is more common among women who are sexually active. Anyone suffering from the HERPES VIRUS needs to read this. Click Here Now

While it is a mild problem that can go away on its own in a few days, it can lead to more serious problems if not treated. Possible causes of the infection could include multiple sex partners, having a female sex partner or douching.

Symptoms

Vaginal discharge and odor are the symptoms. The discharge can look grayish, white or yellow, and the amount varies from woman to woman. The odor is characterized by a "fishy" smell.
Nearly half of women with this infection have no symptoms at all. Several things can cause abnormal vaginal discharge, including some STDs, so it is best to seek treatment when uncertain.

Tests

In a woman with an unusual vaginal discharge, the doctor asks a series of questions to determine severity of conditions. Symptoms that could indicate more serious conditions include fever, pelvic pain, multiple sex partners in unprotected intercourse, or the presence or a history of an STD.

Additionally, a pelvic exam will be performed in which the doctor will take note of the appearance of the vaginal lining and cervix. A manual examination of the ovaries and uterus may also take place to search for more serious infection, or to collect samples to check for other STDs. Signs Of Herpes

A "whiff test" is another type performed with potassium hydroxide liquid. When a drop of this liquid contacts a drop of the discharge sample, a fishy odor can result from the bacterial vaginosis.

Outcomes

Treatment typically involves antibiotics, most commonly, metronidazole and clindamycin. They come in pill, cream or capsule form to be put in the vagina. It typically clears up in two or three days with this treatment, but the treatment itself goes on for a week. As with all antibiotics, it is important to finish the course of treatment to ensure the bacterial vaginosis disease is cured.