Bacterial vaginosis natural treatments are often overlooked as most women opt for the conventional and easy treatment regimens of oral and topical antibiotics. However, a main drawback of antibiotic treatment is that the antibiotics do not know which ones are the good bacteria. It kills not only the bad bacteria that causes BV but also the good bacteria in the vaginal area and the gut, making the woman more susceptible for a recurrence.

Simple treatments for BV can be done in the privacy and comfort of the home. Something as simple as a lifestyle change can not only treat the disease but also prevent it from recurring. Eliminating the risk factors will also increase the likelihood of success in treating BV.

BV infections develop when bad bacteria is introduced to the vagina, develops in a conducive environment and overwhelms the naturally occurring good bacteria. Prevention is still the best bacterial vaginosis natural treatment. Simple hygiene practices are useful in preventing BV. After using the toilet, it is best to wipe from front to back so as to not introduce more unwanted bacteria into the vaginal area. Keeping the vaginal area dry can also deprive the bacteria of the moisture it needs to proliferate. Wearing loose, cotton underwear also promotes air circulation and prevents moisture build-up.

A strong immune system can also protect against the disease. A balanced diet, adequate exercise and sleep are essential in maintaining a healthy immune system. Cigarette smoking and alcohol drinking should also be avoided. The main advantage of this is that it not only protects against BV but a wide range of diseases as well.

The kitchen is also a goldmine of overlooked BV treatments. Here you can find useful herbs and ingredients that can be used in treating BV. This includes natural antioxidants and antimicrobials like garlic, tea tree oil, aromatic essential oils and vinegar to name a few. This can be mixed in water and used as feminine wash.
Natural treatments are generally safe. However, it is recommended to see a doctor even if you are using bacterial vaginosis natural treatments.

About 1 in 5 women have bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy. Bacterial vaginosis resolves on its own in up to 50 % of infected pregnant women. While, majority of women with BV have normal pregnancies and deliveries, developing bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy is associated with premature labor, having a low birthweight baby, miscarriages, premature rupture of membranes.

The link between BV and these complications are not yet known. Bacterial vaginosis is not routinely checked during pre-natal check-ups but the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that symptomatic women undergo screening and treatment. Treating the condition is done to prevent premature labor but does not seem to reduce its likelihood. For this reason, routine screening of bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy is still a controversial issue. However, some experts recommend screening for and treating bacterial vaginosis in women with a history of premature birth.

Treatment for bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy usually involves antibiotics that are safe for pregnant women, usually in oral form. The partner is seldom treated. It is important for the patient to complete the entire course of treatment even if the symptoms have disappeared. In most cases, bacterial vaginosis resolves completely after treatment but may recur in some. It is not clear why recurrences happen. It could be caused by other “bad” bacteria not completely treated and/or by the slow growth of the “good” bacteria. You should inform your doctor immediately if this happens. Do not take antibiotics without seeing a doctor. The diagnosis of BV should be based on laboratory and clinical examinations. It can be difficult to tell if the discharge is caused by BV or a different kind of vaginal infection.

The best way to prevent bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy is by taking preventive measures like practicing better hygiene and following safe-sex practices.