It’s especially important to see your doctor if the discharge is accompanied by other symptoms, like a fever or an unusual odor.
An increased susceptibility to HIV infection if exposed to the HIV virus, and an increased susceptibility to other sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. Increased risk of infection following surgical procedures such as hysterectomies and abortions. [8] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Increased risk of complications during pregnancy, such as premature delivery and low birth weight. An increased risk of developing pelvic inflammatory disease, which is an infection of the uterus and fallopian tubes that can lead to infertility.
Your doctor will usually prescribe an antibiotic such as metronidazole or clindamycin. These antibiotics can be taken orally as a pill, or applied topically as a vaginal gel or cream. It is particularly important to receive treatment for BV if you are pregnant, in order to avoid complications. In fact, the CDC recommends that all pregnant women who have ever had a premature delivery or low birth weight baby should undergo a BV examination and, if necessary, receive treatment. [10] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Limit your number of sexual partners: Having sex with multiple partners can upset the natural balance of the vagina. Therefore, try to abstain from sex or limit the number of people you have sex with. When you do have sex, make sure to use a male latex condom to avoid picking up an STD. [12] X Trustworthy Source US Office on Women’s Health U. S. government agency providing resources for women’s health Go to source Do not douche: Douching disrupts the normal balance of your vagina and makes you more susceptible to developing BV. Douching will not clear a vaginal infection and is strongly discouraged by the US Department of Health and Human Services. [13] X Trustworthy Source US Office on Women’s Health U. S. government agency providing resources for women’s health Go to source Avoid vaginal irritation: Things like washing your vaginal area with soap, using scented tampons or sanitary pads, and frequently using hot tubs can irritate your vagina and increase the risk of developing BV. [14] X Research source The use of IUDs has also been linked with an increased risk of BV. Alter your diet: Some research has suggested that following a diet rich in folate, calcium and vitamin E can help to decrease the risk of developing BV. [15] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source It can also be helpful to quit smoking. [16] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
