Bacterial vaginosis is a form of mild infection which occurs in the reproductive organs of a woman due to bacteria. Generally, there are “good” bacteria in the vagina and some that are considered to be “bad.” The “good” bacteria regulate the growth of the “bad” types. Vaginosis occurs when the balance is upset. Bacterial vaginosis usually lasts for a few days and can disappear on its own.
Causes of Bacterial vaginosis
Medical experts are yet to discover what exactly triggers the bacteria imbalances in the reproductive organs of a woman. However, there are some factors that can make it more likely to occur. For instance, you are at a higher risk of getting bacterial vaginosis if you have more than one sexual partner. Women who douche are also at a higher chance of this infection. Other causes include poor hygiene, smoking, alcoholism, and use of intrauterine tools for contraception.
Signs and Symptoms of Bacterial vaginosis
The most notable sign of this condition is a smelly discharge from the vagina. It may be yellowish or grayish white. The smell may become worse especially after an intercourse. Surprisingly, about a half of women who develop bacterial vaginosis do not notice any symptoms. This is mainly because there are many causes of abnormal vaginal discharge including some sexually transmitted diseases. It is thus important to contact your healthcare provider to get the appropriate diagnosis. Other symptoms may include redness and itching of the vagina. Some women also experience a burning sensation during urination.
Natural Treatment of Bacterial vaginosis
• Yogurt
You should dip a clean tampon in plain yogurt and insert it into your vagina to relieve the bacterial infection. Yogurt is loaded with natural bacteria which balances the pH level of the vagina while addressing the infection. Eating plain yogurt twice a day can also help fight bacterial vaginosis.
• Apple Cider Vinegar
Simply put a cup of apple cider vinegar in a tub of water. Soak your vagina for around 20 minutes. This helps in killing the harmful bacteria while fighting the infection. You can do this every morning until you condition improves.
• Calendula
Prepare some calendula tea by boiling it in water. Using a clean cloth, soak it and gently massage your vagina. This relieves the inflammation caused by bacterial infection. You can perform this twice a day to get rid of bacterial vaginosis.
• Garlic
This is one of the best natural remedies for bacterial infections in women. You can incorporate raw garlic cloves in your diet . Garlic is a natural antibiotic that helps relieve bacterial vaginosis.
• Tea Tree Oil
Women suffering from bacterial vaginosis can get relief from tea tree oil as an herbal remedy. Simply take a few drops of tea tree oil and add in lukewarm water. Gently rinse your vagina with this solution. Tea tree oil works as an antibacterial and effectively relieves bacterial vaginosis.
• Fenugreek Seeds
Put a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in some water and let it soak overnight. Take this water the next morning before having your breakfast. Apart from maintaining the hormonal balance, fenugreek also regulates the menstrual cycle.
Related link: Ladies! THIS is How to Decode Your Vaginal Discharge
• Golden Seal
This is a powerful natural solution for treating bacterial vaginosis. Golden seal can be applied as a tincture to eliminate the infection fast.
• Boric Acid Suppositories
Boric acid plays an important role in treating bacterial vaginosis. To get quicker relief,( according to Webmd) you can insert boric acid suppositories into your vagina. Alternatively, you can take 0 sized gel capsules and fill with 500mg of boric acid to prepare your own suppositories.
• Citrus Fruits
These include fruits like lemon, oranges, and grapefruits. They are rich in vitamin C which enhances your immune system and prevents you from any form of infection. You should regularly drink juices from citrus fruits to prevent bacterial infections.
• Black Walnut
This has strong antiseptic and anti-parasitic properties. Black walnut can be applied as a tincture to get rid of bacterial vaginosis.
• Margosa Leaves
This ranks among the most effective natural remedies for bacterial infections. Mash a handful of margosa leaves and mix with some water to form a paste. Massage the paste on your vagina and leave it for a couple of minutes. Repeat the process twice every day to eliminate the bacterial infection.
• Hydrogen Peroxide
As a natural disinfectant, hydrogen peroxide is helpful in eradicating the harmful bacteria and other inflammatory agents that trigger bacterial vaginosis. Mix 3% hydrogen peroxide with an equal amount of clean water. This solution can be used as a douche. Alternatively, soak a tampon in the solution and insert it into your vagina. You should not let the inserted tampon to stay for more than 30 minutes.
