Douching For Bacterial Vaginosis - Yes Or No?

Many women wonder if douching for bacterial vaginosis is the right thing to do

. There is a common feeling that douching can help to cleanse the vagina, therefore helping prevent and treat infection. Many women douche after sex, after their monthly period or simply because they believe it will reduce their vulnerability to STD's. In the case of bacterial vaginosis, many believe it will help get rid of the unpleasant fishy odor and wash away the infection.

The truth is that the vagina is self-cleansing. A healthy vagina contains a mix of bacteria and other organisms and this is known as the "vaginal flora" and this maintains a slightly acidic environment which in turn, keeps the levels of harmful bacteria down. There are various things which can upset this natural balance and when this happens, developing bacterial vaginosis can be consequence.

Douching for bacterial vaginosis is not a good idea as this disturbs the natural balance, removing lots of protective, good bacteria meaning that what might have been a mild disruption of the pH levels becomes severe. Douching can also mean that any infection can be spread further into the internal organs such as the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.

Research indicates that even when bacterial vaginosis is not present, women who douche may have more health issues than those who do not, with infections such as pelvic inflammatory disease, STD's and general inflammation of the vaginal tissues being common.

On the assumption that douching for bacterial vaginosis is a bad idea, what should you do?

The best way is to allow the vagina to clean itself. The naturally produced mucous is usually high in protective bacteria and this can help to cleanse, even after sex and after the monthly period. Accept that the vagina will always have some odor and you should not worry as long as this is not unpleasant. Regular washing, twice a day with plain water is the best way to go and you should avoid perfumed products.

If you have had BV for more than a couple of days, then it is wise to take action. However, avoid douching for bacterial vaginosis and consider using natural treatments which will use a multifaceted approach.

See below for details.

by: Miriam Hopton

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