Facts On Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial Vaginosis, commonly referred to as Gardnerella Vaginitis is an abnormal vaginal condition or imbalance of vaginal bacteria that is caused by an overgrowth of one of several organisms that are normally present in the vagina. When a woman"s "bad" bacteria outweighs her "good" bacteria, Bacterial Vaginosis is typically the culprit. This type of vaginal infection is not necessarily sexually related but tends to be more prevalent in sexually active women with new or multiple sexual partners. However, virgins or women that have never had sexual intercourse can also experience Bacterial Vaginosis. When a women suspects Bacterial Vaginosis, she typically experiences a strong fishy odor that is more obvious during and after sexual intercourse. In addition, she may also experience a white or grayish discharge and burning or itching sensations.

If you suspect that you may have Bacterial Vaginosis, you should seek a diagnosis from your physician. To diagnose this condition, she will perform a pelvic examination and will evaluate your vaginal lining and cervix for tenderness. She will also evaluate a sampling of your vaginal fluid and take a look at your "clue cells" under the microscope. This test will help her determine if you have Bacterial Vaginosis, a yeast Infection, a sexually transmitted infection like Trichomonas, or if you"re in the clear. Lastly, she will perform a "whiff test" in which she combines your fluid with potassium hydroxide and then takes a whiff of it to see if it smells fishy. If it does smell fishy then you likely have Bacterial Vaginosis. If you do have Bacterial Vaginosis, you"ll likely receive a round of antibiotics like Metronidazole that can be taken orally or a gel that can be applied vaginally. Another option will be Clindamycin cream that you will insert vaginally.

If you suspect that you have Bacterial Vaginosis, you should seek a diagnosis from a qualified medical professional. She will utilize various methods to diagnose you and will give you some antibiotics to help rid you of your infection once and for all!

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