Metronidazole is available as an oral tablet or medicated cream that is applied to the vagina. Metronidazole may cause nausea or an upset stomach. Because of this, avoid alcohol use while taking this medication.
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Bacterial vaginosis - often referred to as BV - is a change in the bacteria within the vagina. The vagina contains naturally occurring bacteria and fungus that help protect the area and keep it clean. When this balance is thrown off, due to overgrowth and/or change in the species of bacteria growing within it, it can result in bothersome symptoms.
BV is most common in women between the ages of 15 and 50, or women in their “reproductive years”. Nearly 1 in 3 women will experience bacterial vaginosis at some point in their lives.
Bacterial vaginosis is generally very treatable and rarely causes complications. If left untreated, however, it can increase your risk of contracting an STI or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) - an infection of the uterus and fallopian tubes. In pregnant women, bacterial vaginosis has been linked to premature deliveries and babies with dangerously low birth weight.
Symptoms of BVOver 80% of people who experience bacteria vaginosis do not experience symptoms. However, some common signs and symptoms of BV include:
BV is most common in women between the ages of 15 and 50, or women in their “reproductive years”. Nearly 1 in 3 women will experience bacterial vaginosis at some point in their lives.
Common Causes of BVBacterial vaginosis is caused by a change in bacterial composition in the vagina. The vagina contains naturally occurring bacteria that help protect the area and keep it healthy. These organisms are known as “good bacteria” or “vaginal flora”. BV occurs when harmful vaginal bacteria start to overtake the “good bacteria” and the pH – or acid/base balance – changes. When this vaginal balance is thrown off, due to an overgrowth and/or change in the species of bacteria growing within it, it can result in bothersome symptoms.
Common causes of BV include:
Doctors still do not fully understand the link between sexual activity and the increased risk for BV. However, BV does appear to occur more often in women with multiple sexual partners than in those who do not have regular sex or only have one sex partner.
You cannot get bacterial vaginosis from swimming pools, toilet seats or bedding.
BV Risk FactorsSome factors may increase the risk of contracting a bacterial infection of the vagina. These risk factors include:
Bacterial vaginosis requires a course of antibiotics to fully treat the infection. If you are experiencing symptoms of bacterial vaginosis, talk to a health care provider. Most cases of BV are effectively treated with antibiotics. During your appointment, talk to your provider about the treatment that is best for you.