Cause of Bacterial Vaginosis

Many women want to know the cause of bacterial vaginosis so that they can take steps to reduce the risk of developing this vaginal infection. It's easier to understand the causes of bacterial vaginosis, if you know exactly what it is.

What is Bacterial Vaginosis

All women naturally have bacteria living in the vaginal area and the good bacteria stop pathogens and yeast from multiplying. Anything that upsets the balance of the vaginal microflora can be the cause of bacterial vaginosis.

Possible causes of bacterial vaginosis

These are all factors that some experts believe can trigger an imbalance in the vaginal microflora.

• taking antibiotics

• use of an IUD (intra-uterine contraceptive device)

• having multiple sex partners

• using tampons

• using a diaphragm

• starting sexual activity at a young age

• oral to genital sexual activity

• douching

• women having sex with women

The factors mentioned above have always been considered "standard" risk factors in what causes bacterial vaginosis, but a 2006 study did not completely endorse this. This study of 139 women found that a past history of BV, a REGULAR sex partner, and female sex partners were the only factors that were "significantly associated" with BV recurring.¹

Taking hormonal contraception decreased the risk.¹

You'll notice that many of the possible causes are sex related. Bacterial vaginosis is NOT a sexual disease but because sexual activity can change the vaginal microflora, sex can act as a trigger. The presence of semen raises the vaginal pH which can encourage the wrong type of bacteria to flourish.

Any woman can get bacterial vaginosis, although it is rare in virgins.¹

You can not catch bacterial vaginosis from toilet seats, bedding, swimming pools or by touching objects in your enironment.²

REFERENCES

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