What to Do If You Suffer From Bacterial Vaginosis During Pregnancy
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection that can occur during pregnancy. It is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. BV can cause symptoms such as vaginal itching, burning, or irritation; a thin, white or gray vaginal discharge; and a fishy odor.
BV is not typically harmful to the mother or the baby, but it can increase the risk of certain pregnancy complications, such as:
Preterm birth
Low birth weight
Chorioamnionitis (an infection of the membranes that surround the baby)
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
If you think you may have BV, it is important to see your doctor right away. Your doctor will perform a pelvic exam and take a sample of your vaginal discharge to test for BV.
Treatment for BV During Pregnancy
The most common treatment for BV during pregnancy is antibiotics. Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics that are safe to take during pregnancy. You will need to take the antibiotics for 7-10 days.
In some cases, your doctor may also recommend using a vaginal cream or gel to treat BV. These products can help to relieve symptoms and prevent the infection from coming back.
Preventing BV During Pregnancy
There is no sure way to prevent BV during pregnancy, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk:
Keep your vagina clean by washing it with warm water and mild soap.
Avoid using harsh soaps or douches.
Wear cotton underwear and avoid wearing tight clothing.
Change your underwear frequently.
Avoid using scented tampons or pads.
Practice safe sex.
Living With BV During Pregnancy
If you have BV during pregnancy, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions for treatment. You should also:
Keep your vagina clean and dry.
Avoid using harsh soaps or douches.
Wear cotton underwear and avoid wearing tight clothing.
Change your underwear frequently.
Avoid using scented tampons or pads.
Practice safe sex.
BV can be a nuisance during pregnancy, but it is usually not harmful to the mother or the baby. By following your doctor's instructions for treatment and prevention, you can help to reduce your risk of complications and have a healthy pregnancy.
Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis During Pregnancy
The symptoms of BV during pregnancy are similar to the symptoms of BV in non-pregnant women. These symptoms include:
Vaginal itching, burning, or irritation
A thin, white or gray vaginal discharge
A fishy odor
Pain or burning during urination
Pain during sex
Causes of Bacterial Vaginosis During Pregnancy
The exact cause of BV is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. This overgrowth can occur for a number of reasons, including:
Changes in the vaginal pH balance
Changes in the vaginal flora
The use of antibiotics
Douching
Having multiple sexual partners
Risk Factors for Bacterial Vaginosis During Pregnancy
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing BV during pregnancy, including:
Being African American
Having a history of BV
Being sexually active
Having multiple sexual partners
Douching
Using antibiotics
Diagnosis of Bacterial Vaginosis During Pregnancy
Your doctor can diagnose BV during pregnancy by performing a pelvic exam and taking a sample of your vaginal discharge. The sample will be tested for the presence of bacteria that cause BV.
Treatment for Bacterial Vaginosis During Pregnancy
The most common treatment for BV during pregnancy is antibiotics. Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics that are safe to take during pregnancy. You will need to take the antibiotics for 7-10 days.
In some cases, your doctor may also recommend using a vaginal cream or gel to treat BV. These products can help to relieve symptoms and prevent the infection from coming back.
Preventing Bacterial Vaginosis During Pregnancy
There is no sure way to prevent BV during pregnancy, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk:
Keep your vagina clean by washing it with warm water and mild soap.
Avoid using harsh soaps or douches.
Wear cotton underwear and avoid wearing tight clothing.
Change your underwear frequently.
Avoid using scented tampons or pads.
Practice safe sex.
Living With Bacterial Vaginosis During Pregnancy
If you have BV during pregnancy, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions for treatment. You should also:
Keep your vagina clean and dry.
Avoid using harsh soaps or douches.
Wear cotton underwear and avoid wearing tight clothing.
Change your underwear frequently.
Avoid using scented tampons or pads.
Practice safe sex.
BV can be a nuisance during pregnancy, but it is usually not harmful to the mother or the baby. By following your doctor's instructions for treatment and prevention, you can help to reduce your risk of complications and have a healthy pregnancy.
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