How to Cure Recurrent Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is caused by an imbalance of the normally occuring bacteria in the vagina. This is not to be confused with yeast infections, though women who suffer from recurrent bacterial vaginosis are also prone to yeast infections. Bacterial vaginosis can cause an abnormal discharge from the vagina that has a fishy smell, and can also cause irritation, itching, and swelling.

Instructions

• 1

  Identify the cause of the vaginosis. While it is easy to treat bacterial vaginosis, recurrent bacterial vaginosis usually has some underlying cause. Examples can include a sudden change in your hormone levels, a particular brand of feminine hygiene product, or a new sex partner. A careful medical history as well as some blood tests to check hormonal levels will usually help your doctor get an idea of how to cure your bacterial vaginosis.

• 2

  Take antibiotics (after talking to your doctor, of course, and obtaining a prescription). Antibiotics are usually a short-term treatment for recurrent bacterial vaginosis, but they will clear up the infection and also allow your physician to try different ways of curing the condition and seeing if different treatments are having an effect.

• 3

  Use a pH-lowering gel. Many kinds of bacteria that can cause recurrent bacterial vaginosis are able to grow and thrive at a higher pH. Certain products, such as RepHresh vaginal gel work to lower the pH of the vagina, which can inhibit the growth of bacteria. This product should be applied on the walls of the vagina every three days.

• 4

  Add helpful bacteria. The vagina normally has certain kinds of bacteria in it that do not cause infections. These bacteria, also known as lactic acid bacteria, can grow in the vagina and help force out other bacteria that can cause recurrent bacterial vaginosis. Certain products, such as Fem-dophilus, can be taken to encourage lactic acid bacteria to grow.

• 5

  Change your diet. Diets that are high in sugars, dairy products, and soy are thought to encourage the growth of the bacteria that cause recurrent bacterial vaginosis. Well balanced diets, especially those that have healthy amounts of vitamins and minerals, keep the immune system strong which can help prevent infections.