Naturally, there are various types of bacteria in a woman's vagina. Usually, the body will work to maintain a balance of bacteria and prevent certain types of bacteria from multiplying excessively.
A disturbed balance of vaginal bacteria can trigger a condition called bacterial vaginosis. Even though it is a common condition, bacterial vaginosis that is left unchecked can trigger complications and increase the risk of sexually transmitted diseases.
Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis
Unlike vaginitis, an infection in the vagina, bacterial vaginosis is a condition when the balance of bacteria in the vagina is disturbed due to certain types of bacteria that grow out of control.
Bacterial vaginosis doesn't always cause severe symptoms, but here are some common symptoms:
- Hot and burning sensation when urinating.
- A gray or white vaginal discharge comes out of the vagina.
- The vaginal discharge that comes out smells fishy.
- Itching and pain in the vaginal area.
Causes of Bacterial Vaginosis
Usually, the good bacteria (lactobacilli) outnumber the bad bacteria (anaerobes). However, too many bad bacteria (anaerobes) can disrupt the balance of microorganisms in the vagina and cause bacterial vaginosis.
Although it is not known exactly why this condition can occur, several factors can increase the risk of bacterial vaginosis:
1. Having many sexual partners or frequently changing partners.
Bacterial vaginosis is most often found in sexually active women, including those who frequently change partners. In addition, unprotected sexual activity, such as condoms, can also increase the risk of this condition.
2. Cleaning the vagina with a vaginal douche.
Douching is cleaning the vagina using soap that can irritate the vagina, such as soap containing perfume and antiseptic soap. Since the vagina is self-cleaning, douching is unnecessary and will only increase the risk of a bacterial imbalance in the vagina.
3. Lack of production of good bacteria.
If a woman's vagina cannot naturally produce enough good bacteria, then she will be more likely to develop bacterial vaginosis. In addition, menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, and various other hormonal changes can also cause the number of good bacteria to decrease naturally.
Using condoms can reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases.
Complications Due to Bacterial Vaginosis
Even though it usually doesn't cause complications, if it continues to be left untreated bacterial vaginosis can trigger several serious complications, such as:
- Pregnancy complications include premature birth, low birth weight, and miscarriage.
- Increases the risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease, such as HIV, chlamydia, or gonorrhea.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Postoperative infection in the pelvic area as a result of a hysterectomy or cesarean section.
Gonorrhea
Bacterial vaginosis is a condition that can be prevented by avoiding using soaps containing fragrances or antiseptics because they can disrupt the balance of existing bacteria. Cleaning the vaginal area can be done only by using clean running water.
In addition, choose pads or tampons that do not contain fragrances because they can irritate. Using protection when having sex is also important to reduce the risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease.
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References:
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2021). Bacterial vaginosis. [online]. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bacterial-vaginosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20352279
Nall, R., & Weatherspoon, D. (2019). Bacterial Vaginosis Is Extremely Common — Here’s What You Need to Know. [online]. https://www.healthline.com/health/bacterial-vaginosis