First Aid to treat Bacterial Vagina.

Bacterial Vaginitis

An inflammation of the vagina is known as vaginitis and it can result in a painful burning sensation along with a discharge. It is caused by an irritation or infection of the vulva. There are three main types of vaginitis. They
are bacterial vaginitis or vaginosis (BV), vaginal candidiasis and trichomoniasis. Women may suffer from any combination of the three forms of vaginitis, each with its own symptoms, though all three types share certain common symptoms. Some women do not exhibit any symptoms at all and tests are required to confirm bacterial vaginitis.



There are several types of bacteria normally present in the vagina. Some of these are regarded as good bacteria, while some of these are harmful. Under normal circumstances, these bacteria do not cause any health problems, but an imbalance between the two types of bacteria results in bacterial vaginitis.

The infection usually affects women during their reproductive years. The exact causes of bacterial vaginitis are still unknown but certain activities such as unprotected sexual intercourse can increase the risk of developing the condition.

Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginitis

The symptoms of bacterial vaginitis include:

A thin grayish discharge from the vagina
A foul smelling odor from the vagina after sexual intercourse
Pain during sexual intercourse
A burning or itching sensation in the vagina
A burning sensation while urinating
Light bleeding from the vagina
Often, there are no symptoms present
Remedies for Bacterial Vaginitis

The treatment to get rid of bacterial vaginitis infection involves halting the growth of “bad” bacteria and bringing their levels back to balance with the “good” bacteria.

The medications that your doctor may prescribe include:

Metronidazole (Flagyl, Metrogel-Vaginal) – This medicine comes in the form of a pill or as an ointment or gel which has to be inserted into the vagina. Treatment takes seven days and. alcohol should be avoided during this period. Side effects include nausea and vomiting.
Tinidazole (Tindamax) - Treatment with this medicine takes five days. Side effects include stomach upset and nausea.
Clindamycin (Cleocin, Clindesse) – This medicine is available in the form of a cream which is applied inside the vagina. Treatment lasts for a period of seven days. Clindamycin can weaken the latex in condoms for up to five days after the last application
You should take your medications as prescribed by your doctor even if the symptoms go away. If you discontinue the treatment prematurely, there is a greater chance of a recurrence.

Recurrence of bacterial vaginitis is quite common despite the efficacy of available treatments. Recurrence may occur within three to six months. If you face this problem, consult your doctor immediately about treatment options that are suitable to you. Such cases may require a longer period of treatment with metronidazole.

One natural cure that has proven quite effective is lactobacillus colonization therapy. Eating foods that are rich in lactobacilli, a “good” bacillus, can help to re-establish the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina. Yogurt is one such food that has an abundance of lactobacillus. It can also be applied as a douche.

Other natural remedies which may help in cases of bacterial vaginitis include:

Garlic - It has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It can be taken orally or applied to the vagina.
Calendula Herb -May help to reduce inflammation.
Cranberry Juice – It contains compounds with anti-bacterial properties. Drinking two to four glasses of pure cranberry juice can help clear the infection.
Teabag – A teabag soaked in water and cooled in the refrigerator can be applied to the inflamed area to provide relief.
Applying a cold compress to your vagina may also help reduce inflammation.
Tincture of Echinacea can be applied to the affected area to provide relief. Echinacea supplements can help boost the body’s immune system.
You should consult your doctor before trying any of these natural remedies.

If you have bacterial vaginitis there are certain steps you can take to hasten your recovery. These include:

Avoid using baths, vaginal douches or perfumed soaps that many women use in an effort to cover the bad odor of bacterial vaginitis.
Wear loose clothes and good quality absorbent cotton underwear, especially in hot climates.
Maintaining good hygiene is very important to prevent a recurrence.
After visiting the toilet, wipe yourself from front to back to prevent the transfer of germs from the anus to the vagina.
Diet for Bacterial Vaginitis

A healthy diet means a stronger immune system and lessens the chance of contracting bacterial vaginitis. A diet high in whole-grains, fruits, flaxseed products, fish and poultry and plenty of water can help prevent an outbreak or recurrence of bacterial vaginitis.

It should be rich in probiotic foods that help redress the imbalance between bacteria in the vagina. One such food is yogurt. The lactobacillus acidophilus bacteria present in yogurt helps to put a check on the growth of “bad” bacteria such as Gardnerella. Having eight ounces of yogurt every day lessens the chance of developing bacterial vaginitis or of a recurrence.

Garlic has natural antibiotic properties that are effective against many bacteria including those that cause bacterial vaginitis.

Certain foods should be avoided because they can alter body pH levels and lead to bacterial vaginitis. They include foods that contain yeast or mold, fermented foods, sugary foods, soft drinks, coffee, alcohol, processed foods and those with a high carbohydrate content.