Bacterial Vaginosis Research Paper

Bacterial Vaginosis is a bacterial infection. This STD occurs when there is an overgrowth of bacteria that is normally present in the vagina. BV can only be spread through female sexual interactions. Males are not able to get this STD because they do not have the same bacteria as women. There are rarely ever any extremely noticeable symptoms. Some symptoms of bacterial vaginosis include; abnormal vaginal discharge, vaginal itching, odor, and/or burning when urinating. Since the symptoms can be unnoticeable, it is sometimes difficult to tell whether you have bacterial vaginosis. You may notice thin white or gray vaginal discharge, fish-like odor, pain, itching, or burning in the vagina. http://www.cdc.gov/std/bv/stdfact-bacterial-vaginosis.htm http://womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/bacterial-vaginosis.html
Prescription creams, gels, and medications are available. These prescription medications do not cure this STD, only treat it. Bacterial vaginosis will recur within 3 to 12 months. This is common. There are many consequences if you leave bacterial vaginosis untreated. The infected person has an increased chance of HIV if they have sex with someone that is infected, if you are pregnant, your baby may become premature, and you have a higher chance to receive other STD’s or develop them yourself. Any hospital or clinic will be able to test and/or treat bacterial vaginosis. There is a free clinic in Menominee where you are able to be tested and treated. To test you for bacterial vaginosis they take fluid samples from the vagina. There are a few steps you can take to help prevent obtaining BV. Women need to balance their vaginal bacteria. They can do this by washing the outer vagina with warm water. Women should also not douche or have sexual intercourse if they are infected. They should always practice safe