Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is one of the leading types of vaginal infections that affects 1 in every 3 women. The condition is triggered by a disturbance in the vaginal pH, which contributes to an imbalance in the bacteria present in the vagina.
Trying reliable probiotics for bacterial vaginosis has been found effective in treating the symptoms that lead to discomfort. There are instances where the condition clears up by itself. However, if the condition gets progressively worse, that’s when you need to seek medical attention.
This article will explore some of the best ways to avoid bacterial vaginosis so you don’t have to suffer in silence.
1. Prioritize vaginal hygiene
Many people have a misconception that BV is a type of sexually transmitted infection, which isn’t the case. It is generally a direct consequence of the vagina’s bacterial imbalance.
Hence, practicing good vaginal hygiene has been found to have promising effects in reducing the risks of the onset of this condition.
To keep your external genitalia clean, all you need is some warm water and mild and unscented soap. Avoid using soap in the vagina. Also, avoid douching your vagina, since it affects the pH balance and enhances the risks of BV.
2. Up consumption of probiotics
Lactobacillus is an essential bacterium that’s responsible for healthy vaginal flora. Studies support the fact that consumption of probiotics from yogurt, fermented foods, etc. reduces the risks of BV to an extent.
Besides oral probiotic options, you have a vaginal probiotic suppository, which restores the population of healthy strains of bacteria in the vagina, reducing the risks of BV.
3. Wear breathable fabrics
The fabric of the underwear you are wearing makes a huge difference in your vaginal health. The most constricting and non-breathable your underwear is, the worse it gets for your vaginal health.
Wearing poor-quality and poorly fitted underwear leads to moisture accumulation and a rise in the temperature around the vagina, which can lead to infections.
Instead, prioritize wearing loose-fitted underwear and cotton fabric underwear to limit the risks of infection.
4. Use condoms
Although BV isn’t an STI strictly, we can’t deny the fact that unprotected sex without a condom could lead to the onset of this infection in some cases.
Unprotected sexual intercourse often contributes to the disruption of the vaginal flora, disrupting the bacterial growth and balance in the vagina. Hence, wearing condoms during sexual intercourse is a precaution you can consider taking.
5. Manage stress
As weird as it sounds, there are studies, which indicate correlations between vaginal health and stress. Hence, not managing your stress levels could be a direct reason why you are at heightened risk of BV.
A study found that cortisol (stress hormone) increases the glycogen levels in vaginal tissue, which is associated with risks of bacterial vaginosis.
These are some of the scientifically proven methods and tips you can follow to reduce your risks of bacterial vaginosis. Given how painful and uncomfortable the symptoms are, it’s always ideal that you adhere to preventive measures to keep your vaginal health in check.
