The first step to finding an effective bacterial Vaginitis treatment is to make sure that you have talked to your doctor, who can help you make sure that you do not have another, more serious, problem. There are several tests that can be done to verify your diagnosis, and to ensure that you get proper treatment, which will typically include either an oral or topical medication.

Causes of Bacterial Vaginitis

The main cause of bacterial vaginitis is the abundance of anaerobic bacteria in the vagina, and a higher than normal pH. Anaerobic bacteria do not need oxygen to live, and can multiply quickly in the vaginial area. As the anaerobic bacteria increase, the good bacteria that live in the area decrease, which further exacerbates the problems that you may be having.

Bacterial vaginitis has been linked to having multiple, or one new, sexual partners, smoking, and other unrelated causes. If you have any kind of odd or unusual discharge, you will want to contact a doctor for testing. It only takes a few minutes to evaluate your condition, either by using a microscopic examination of a sample of vaginal fluid, or by adding chemicals to the sample.

Symptoms

The main symptom of bacterial vaginitis is having an odd, grayish colored or foul smelling discharge. The actual discharge will vary among women, and according to the severity of the condition. There are typically no other symptoms, and with treatment, the condition is one that is not particularly harmful. The principal reason that you need to visit a doctor is to rule out any other conditions, and to make sure the resolution of symptoms.

Some women may have recurrence of bacterial vaginitis within twelve months of the original diagnosis. There can be many reasons for the recurrence, although doctors are not entirely sure why some women have the condition often and others do not. Getting tested is the only way to get treatment and get rid of the bothersome symptoms that come along with this condition.

Treatment

The bacterial vaginitis treatment will typically consist of taking a round of medications, such as antibiotics or a topical ointment. Many women can use the treatments effectively, but there are some side effects, and you should not take these medications while you are pregnant. Other women have recurring bacterial vaginitis, and will need to find the root cause of the condition for treatment to get rid of the condition for an extended period of time.

Treatment will usually last for only seven to ten days. If you have serious side effects, such as vomiting, from taking the oral medication, then you also have the option of simply using the topical treatment. Talking to your doctor can help you choose the right bacterial vaginitis treatment, whether you need the treatment three or four times a year, or just once.