How is bacterial vaginosis diagnosed?
The most noticable symptom of this problem is a foul odor that originates in the vagina. This odor is fishy in nature. This usually co-occurs with a discharge from the vagina (also foul-smelling: more on our BV Symptoms page), a burning sensation, possible itching inside and around the vagina/vulva. Some pain may be felt in the vaginal area too. BV may further lead to bladder and uthreral infection as well as skin infection around the vulva (genitals). Read this page for the detailed primary and secondary symptoms: bacterial vaginosis symptoms.
There can be multiple causes behind BV. One of the popular beliefs is that the cause is sexual. While that is true in some cases, but in general bacterial vaginosis can occur due to other reasons too. The core of the problem lies in disbalanced pH inside the vagina, leading to disbalance in the desired levels of bacteria inside the female reproductive canal. Menopause, thongs and anemia are known to cause BV. Here is more information on bacterial vaginosis causes.
The first sign of bacterial vaginosis is a discharge with foul odor following the sexual intercourse but depending on the woman’s health and severity of this disease, more symptoms may appear. These include stomach cramps, swelling, itching and irritation, while in cases of severe bacterial vaginosis there will be large discharges with intense smell. All these signs should trigger an immediate response and the best thing to do is consult a specialist.
Taking over the counter drugs might look like an easy and fast solution, but the truth is this could prove very risky. The problem resides in the fact that someone with no medical background can’t diagnose the disease correctly, or the stages so she will be able to choose the right medication. A drug might have the opposite effect, worsen the affliction and hurt the immune system in the process. That’s why you shouldn’t jump to conclusions and choose self medication over a professional advice, because you take huge chances.