Many people do not realise the devastating effect that bacterial vaginosis can have on a sufferer's life.
Not only is the condition extremely uncomfortable, but the fishy vaginal odor can be so bad to be noticeable by those around.
This can be excruciatingly embarrassing in, say, a work situation but can also have repercussions for women who are in a relationship, particularly when it is in the early fragile stages.
Very often, many of the things we naturally do which we think will help will have the opposite effect, but fortunately, with a little knowledge, there are some simple ways to treat bacterial vaginosis naturally which will begin to restore balance.
Bacterial vaginosis is caused by an imbalance of the naturally occurring bacteria within the vagina.
Under normal circumstances, the natural lubricants of the vagina are slightly acidic in nature and this maintains a healthy environment.
When the balance is upset, conditions become alkaline and this causes an overgrowth of harmful bacteria which causes the unpleasant symptoms of BV, which include the foul, fishy smelling odor and that uncomfortable itching and burning sensation around the vaginal area.
Although antibiotics can help to kill off the harmful bacteria, they do not treat the underlying cause and this means that as soon as the treatment is finished, bacteria is likely to regrow.
Indeed, around 70% of women who are treated with antibiotics for BV will have a repeat attack within a few short weeks.
The following is a list of some simple ways to treat bacterial vaginosis naturally:- * Avoid over washing and douching, as this can upset the natural balance * Do not use perfumed products around the vaginal area * Wear cotton panties as this allows air to circulate around the vaginal area * Avoid intercourse whilst the problem persists, or at the very least, use a condom * Take care to change your sanitary protection frequently, even when the flow is light *Tea tree oil can be helpful in killing off harmful bacteria-try using pessaries or even adding a few drops of neat oil to a shallow bath * Introduce "beneficial" bacteria to the vagina via a tampon soaked in live Lactobacillus yogurt The steps above may be sufficient to help get to on the right track.
However, if you have had the condition for more than three days, or if your symptoms are particularly severe, you would be well-advised to consider a more robust treatment.