Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common type of vaginal infection that is caused by bacterial imbalance. This infection occurs when there are more bad bacteria than the healthy ones. Aside from imbalance of bacteria, a change in vaginal pH can also cause BV. The normal pH of the vagina is usually 3.8 up to 4.5. If it’s already higher than 45 and is too alkaline, you’ll have BV as well.
Common symptoms of BV include vaginal discharge that can be white or grey and a foul-smelling vaginal odor. In some occasions, itching, burning, and pain when urinating is also experienced by those who have BV.
There are certain factors that can increase your risk of having this infection. Some experts say that having multiple partners can contribute to BV. Other risk factors include smoking and douching. It is also recommended to refrain from using scented bath soaps and laundry detergents because they have an ability to alter the bacteria levels in one’s vagina.
BV may clear up one its own but it is often treated using antibiotics prescribed by doctors to get rid of the symptoms. However, even with treatment, bacterial vaginosis can still recur after a couple of months.
Nowadays, various home remedies arise to manage BV. Treating your BV through home remedies is not bad but you have to be cautious when trying certain remedies. One wrong move can make your condition worse. Take note, they might only provide temporary relief to your condition.
One example of a home remedy that can help you manage your BV is the use of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV). ACV is believed to have antibacterial properties. It may also help you speed up your metabolism and fight constipation due to pectin. Pectin, which is a type of fiber, is helpful in normalizing acid and cholesterol levels. Even those with anal fissures, which are classified as tears in the anus or anal canal that is commonly caused by constipation, use ACV to treat their condition.
ACV may help you manage BV in three ways. First, you can soak your tampon in a bowl of ACV and water. You can wear the tampon every night and do the practice until the BV symptoms are gone.
Having an ACV bath is another thing that can be done to get rid of BV. For this bath, you need to add a half of cup of the vinegar in your water-filled tub and you must soak the vagina for 20-30 minutes. Doing this can help you manage your vaginal pH levels.
Third, you can also douche using a teaspoon of ACV and two cups of water. The douching activity should be practiced daily until your BV disappears.
Treating BV is not just about home remedies. It’s also about your lifestyle. Even your lifestyle can also be a factor in healing it. When it comes to diet, you need to include Probiotics. Probiotics can also help you manage the bacteria in your vagina. Examples of foods rich in Probiotics include Greek yogurt, kimchi, and miso.
It’s also recommended to quit smoking weed or tobacco to prevent possible complications. Increasing fluid intake is also important. Having a clean, healthy lifestyle will help you defeat BV in no time.
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