Home Remedies and Herbs for Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Bacterial vaginosis or BV is an imbalance of naturally occurring bacteria found in the vagina. This commonly happens when “good” bacterial flora in the vagina called lactobacilli become overgrown by “bad” bacteria known as anaerobes. This bacterial imbalance results in a bacterial infection and creates vaginosis which is an abnormal discharge from the vagina. ^1,2
 
Bacterial vaginosis is not the same as other vaginal disorders that also cause vaginosis discharges. While BV is the result of an imbalance of otherwise naturally occurring vaginal bacteria, vaginosis caused by a yeast infection or candida is fungal and vaginosis due to trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by a parasite. ^3,4
 
Bacterial vaginosis is extremely common, especially in women of childbearing years, but it can affect women of any age. ²
 
What Causes Bacterial Vaginosis
 
Bacterial vaginosis causes are unknown and the exact cause of why a bacterial imbalance occurs is not clearly understood. BV is not contracted from an outside source like sexually-transmitted diseases, it’s felt that a number of contributing factors work to upset the normal bacteria and pH levels in the vagina. ^1,2
 
Bacterial vaginosis causes include these contributing factors: 

• Vaginal douching that kills “good” bacteria
• Using vaginal deodorants
• Using scented soaps in baths, including anti-bacterial soaps
• Washing underwear in strong detergents
• Using intrauterine contraceptives
• Having multiple or new sex partners
• Natural lack of lactobacilli bacteria

Bacterial Vaginosis Symptoms
 
Bacterial vaginosis symptoms are primarily a change in texture and/or smell in a normal vaginal discharge. Bacterial vaginosis symptoms may include: 

• Thin, watery vaginal discharge
• White, gray or green vaginal discharge
• Foul-smelling or “fishy” vaginal discharge
• Vaginal itching
• Vaginal burning

Approximately half of women who have bacterial vaginosis present little or no symptoms. ¹

 
Natural Remedies and Herbs for Bacterial Vaginosis
 
Bacterial vaginosis home remedies are very effective treatments. Bacterial vaginosis is cured by restoring a healthy balance of lactobacilli bacteria to anaerobes. Some of the best bacterial vaginosis home remedies are:

• Apple Cider Vinegar - Apple cider vinegar has an acidic nature that works to kill harmful bacteria through increasing vaginal acidity.
• Probiotics - Probiotics are antibacterial agents added to foods as a health measure. Vaginosis probiotics remedies work to eliminate harmful bacteria and restore a natural vaginal bacterial balance. Foods like yogurt and kefir are good sources of probiotics.
• Vitamin C - Vitamin C is an essential ingredient in boosting the immune system and fighting unwanted bacteria. Vitamin C strengthens the lining of the vagina and helps to heal irritation caused by bacterial infections.
• Acidophilus - Lactobacillus acidophilus is a common probiotic or “good” bacteria. Taking acidophilus supplements and vaginosis probiotics that contain Lactobacillus acidophilus helps to restore a healthy vaginal bacteria balance.
• Peroxide - Hydrogen peroxide is a natural cleanser produced by lactobacilli bacteria in the vagina. A douche composed of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide mixed with water is an effective remedy in naturally eliminating harmful bacteria and restoring a proper bacterial balance.
• Yogurt - Eating yogurt is one of the most common vaginosis home remedies. Yogurt naturally contains lactobacilli bacteria that contribute to a proper vaginal bacteria balance.

References

1. http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/bacterialvaginosis/Pages/Introduction.aspx
2. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bacterial-vaginosis/home/ovc-20198404
3. https://draxe.com/vaginal-yeast-infection/
4. http://www.drweil.com/health-wellness/health-centers/women/vaginitis/