Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons Citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons are packed with the goodness of vitamin C that is effective against recurring bacterial infections and abnormal vaginal discharge.
The mucous membranes in the vagina require fluids to be supported and healthy. Dehydration can make BV worse by allowing bacteria to become concentrated in the vagina. Drink plenty of clean water (at least 8 glasses) every day even if you're not thirsty.
Researchers suggest that high fat intake, particularly saturated fat may increase vaginal pH, thereby increasing the risk of bacterial vaginosis. As you can see in the associated video Bacterial Vaginosis and Diet, most saturated fat in the American diet comes from dairy, desserts, and chicken.
The primary treatment course for BV is antibiotics. However, some people may wish to treat the condition at home. Options for home treatments include practicing safe hygiene, using barrier protection during intercourse, and taking probiotic supplements. BV is a common condition and typically is not cause for concern.
While BV may go away on its own, if you have symptoms you should take an antibiotic to treat BV. Pregnant women who have BV are more likely to have complications, so it's especially important for them to get treated. Antibiotics include metronidazole, either orally or vaginally, or clindamycin (oral or vaginal).
Your healthcare provider can treat BV with antibiotics; the most common ones prescribed are Metronidazole, Metronidazole gel, or Clindamycin cream. Dean points out that while on any treatment for BV, you should refrain from having sex, as intercourse and other kinds of sexual activity could lead to discomfort or pain.
There is some evidence suggesting that women taking vitamin supplementation show decreased rates of BV6. Probiotics have also been found to provide relief when used in combination with systemic antibiotic therapy15. Anecdotal evidence suggests that cranberry juice may help remedy symptoms.
Pineapple is a rich source of vitamin C, vitamin B, and fibre. Not only do these nutrients improve gut health, but they also help maintain your vagina's natural smell by keeping it healthy and preventing any infections.
Probiotics, live bacteria found in some foods and supplements, might help restore balance to your vaginal bacteria. Some studies show that eating yogurt or probiotic supplements may treat bacterial vaginosis, and is quite safe.
Eat plain, probiotic yogurt daily. One study showed that after consuming 150mL yogurt containing L. acidophilus daily for two months, there was a 60% reduction in BV episodes.
Stay away from raw and undercooked meats and eggs. Don't drink unpasteurized (or raw) milk or any uncooked foods made with raw milk. Avoid most cheese, except for pre-packaged cheese made from pasteurized milk. Undercooked tofu can also be a problem, and avoid miso and tempeh.
Duration of Bacterial Vaginosis
Once BV is treated with antibiotics, it usually goes away. But sometimes it persists or recurs, often within three months, for reasons that aren't entirely understood. If a person keeps getting BV, a longer course of antibiotics may be necessary.
Studies suggest that the higher risk is due to the different pH levels of sperm. The more sexual partners you have, the more likely you can get BV. Furthermore, certain genetic and lifestyle factors can put women at higher risk of getting bacterial vaginosis and having recurring cases.
While bacterial vaginosis may go away on its own, most doctors use antibiotics to treat it. You may have been prescribed pills or vaginal cream. With treatment, bacterial vaginosis usually clears up in 5 to 7 days. Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety.
Herbs and spices help to boost immunity and fight infections thanks to the anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial compounds within. Ginger and turmeric are go-to herbs and spices - ginger is a great antioxidant and turmeric has anti-bacterial properties.
eating or drinking contaminated food or water. breathing in droplets from an infected person. touching dirty surfaces and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Eating too much sugar is directly related to bacterial vaginosis (BV). You can, without a doubt, put the blame on glucose. According to a study published in The Journal Of Nutrition, too much glucose can aid the growth of bacteria in the vaginal area which increases the chances of recurring bacterial vaginosis.
Which probiotics are best for BV? Lactobacilli-based probiotics such as Lacticasebacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus fermentum, and Lactobacillus reuteri are best for treating BV.
Your vagina is acidic, so eating fruits like pineapple or oranges or grapefruit can help balance the delicate pH levels of your vagina and make your secretions taste a bit sweeter. But if you want to eat that one fruit that will set you up for a great oral session, close your eyes and go for pineapples.
Even the smallest change can throw off a person's PH. So, the healthiest way to clean the vulva (which is the external genital area around the vaginal opening) is gently—this skin is soft and sensitive y'all! — with water and unscented soap; or even just plain water. The vagina (the internal part) is self-cleaning.