What causes BV infection?
What causes BV infection?
BV is a result of an imbalance of “good” and “harmful” bacteria in a vagina. Douching, not using condoms, and having new or multiple sex partners can upset the normal balance of vaginal bacteria, increasing your risk for getting BV. We also do not know how sex causes BV.
Can BV clear up on its own?
Bacterial vaginosis often clears up on its own. But in some women it doesn’t go away on its own. And for many women it comes back after it has cleared up. Antibiotic treatment works for some women but not others.
How do I get BV to go away?
Your doctor can prescribe antibiotics that will usually treat bacterial vaginosis within one week. Finish all of your antibiotics, even if your symptoms go away early. If you symptoms don’t go away within a few days of finishing the antibiotic, go back to your doctor.
Is BV contagious?
Is bacterial vaginosis contagious (BV)? Bacterial vaginosis (BV) doesn’t spread from person to person, but sexual activity can increase your risk of getting the infection.
Is BV an STD?
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a bacterial infection that causes unusual vaginal discharge with a fish-like odor. Although BV can transmit to others via sexual activity, healthcare professionals do not consider it a sexually transmitted infection (STI), and it can develop due to other reasons.
Can men give you BV?
Can men spread BV? There’s no way for men to get BV. However, experts aren’t as sure about whether men can spread BV to female partners. Women can develop BV regardless of whether they’re sexually active.
How long does BV take to go away?
While the infection 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.
Why does my BV keep coming back?
When vaginal pH is too high—that is, too basic or alkaline—it may encourage the growth of bacteria associated with BV. As a result, maintaining a vaginal pH that’s slightly acidic may help prevent reinfection. One way to prevent your vaginal pH from becoming too alkaline is by using gels that contain lactic acid.