Bacterial Vaginosis Medical Info

Bacterial vaginosis and pregnancy - are probiotics safe for use during pregnancy?

2011-07-02T02:23:00.000-07:00

One of the natural remedies for bacterial vaginosis is probiotics. But what if you are affected by the condition while you are pregnant? Is it still safe to take probiotic supplements during pregnancy?

Bacterial vaginosis in pregnancy - how is it treated?

Typically bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy is treated with antibiotics, such as metronidazole and clindamycin. There are also more natural ways to achieve bacterial vaginosis relief, including taking probiotic supplements. A paper published in the March issue of the Canadian Family Physician journal reported on the safety of using probiotics in pregnancy.

The authors of the paper wrote that:

"Probiotics have been used for the treatment of acute diarrhea, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, Clostridium difficile, and yeast and bacterial vaginosis... Probiotics administered orally to combat urogenital infections are not systemically absorbed but rather get to the site of action by passage through the gastrointestinal system and ascending into the vagina.

A meta-analysis and systematic review of 8 randomized control trials of probiotic use in more than 1500 pregnant women was published. Most of the women began probiotic treatment between 32 and 36 weeks’ gestation and continued until delivery. The studies included in the meta-analysis compared Lactobacillus spp alone or in combination with Bifidobacterium spp with placebo. There was no increase in the incidence of miscarriages or malformations, which was expected because probiotic use mostly occurred in the third trimester and was therefore unlikely to affect organogenesis."

"Several randomized control trials conducted in pregnant women in the third trimester of pregnancy were published following the meta-analysis. These studies examined Lactobacillus spp and Bifidobacterium spp as monotherapy or in combination. Although not designed to directly evaluate pregnancy outcomes, these studies did not suggest an increase in adverse outcomes related to probiotics. Two observational studies examining the use of lactobacilli in the first trimester of pregnancy reported no increased risk of malformations."

"Because probiotics are rarely systemically absorbed, they are not expected to transfer into breast milk... There are no published data regarding adverse effects in breastfed infants."

The authors concluded that:

"Probiotics do not appear to pose any safety concerns for pregnant and lactating women. Systemic absorption is rare when probiotics are used by healthy individuals, and the current literature does not indicate an increase in adverse pregnancy outcomes."

To learn more about natural cures for bacterial vaginosis, go to www.bvremedytoday.com.

Why yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis occur?

2011-06-20T07:16:00.000-07:00

Whether you have yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis, both are actually related to the bacteria population residing in the vaginal area. Below is the abstract from the journal paper titled "Vaginal microbiota and the use of probiotics", published in Interdiscip Perspect Infect Dis. 2008;2008:256490, authored by Cribby S, Taylor M, and Reid G.

"The human vagina is inhabited by a range of microbes from a pool of over 50 species. Lactobacilli are the most common, particularly in healthy women. The microbiota can change composition rapidly, for reasons that are not fully clear. This can lead to infection or to a state in which organisms with pathogenic potential coexist with other commensals. The most common urogenital infection in premenopausal women is bacterial vaginosis (BV), a condition characterized by a depletion of lactobacilli population and the presence of Gram-negative anaerobes, or in some cases Gram-positive cocci, and aerobic pathogens.

Treatment of BV traditionally involves the antibiotics metronidazole or clindamycin, however, the recurrence rate remains high, and this treatment is not designed to restore the lactobacilli. In vitro studies have shown that Lactobacillus strains can disrupt BV and yeast biofilms and inhibit the growth of urogenital pathogens. The use of probiotics to populate the vagina and prevent or treat infection has been considered for some time, but only quite recently have data emerged to show efficacy, including supplementation of antimicrobial treatment to improve cure rates and prevent recurrences."

Probiotics for treating imbalanced vaginal microflora are available in capsules, such as Fem-Dophilus capsules.

Vitamin C - bacterial vaginosis natural treatment?

2011-06-16T18:53:00.000-07:00

Apparently one scientific study demonstrated that vitamin C did show some efficacy in curing bacterial vaginosis, a vaginal infection as a result of friendly bacteria (the Lactobacillus species) being replaced by an excessive population of bad bacteria (the aerobic and anaerobic bacteria).

If that's the case, women who suffered from bacterial vaginosis has now another natural remedy for bacterial vaginosis to account on.

Bacterial vaginosis natural treatment with vitamin C

Below is an abstract of the study's methods and results.

Researchers: Petersen EE, Genet M, Caserini M, Palmieri R.
Published in: Arzneimittelforschung. 2011;61(4):260-5.
Title: Efficacy of vitamin C vaginal tablets in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis

A randomised, double blind, parallel groups, placebo controlled clinical trial was conducted to assess the efficacy and safety profile of 250 mg ascorbic acid (Vit. C, Vagi C) in women with bacterial vaginosis (BV).

Overall, 277 out-patients with at least three of the following signs (white discharge that smoothly coats the vaginal walls, pH of vaginal fluid > 4.5, a fishy odor of vaginal discharge before or after addition of 10% KOH and presence of clue cells on microscopic examination) were randomised to apply a tablet deeply into the vagina once daily for 6 days.

The primary efficacy endpoint was the cure rate, defined as the recovery of all inclusion criteria. In the intent-to-treat (ITT) population, cure was achieved by 55.3% of patients with Vit. C (n=141) and by 25.7% of patients with placebo (n=136). The between-group difference was 29.6% (p<0.001).

In the per-protocol (PP) population, cure rate was 66.4% with Vit. C (n=116) and 27.1% with placebo (n = 118), respectively. Between-group difference was 39.3% (p<0.001).

In a subset of patients with centralised evaluation of the vaginal swab, cure in ITT was achieved by 86.3% of patients with Vit. C (n=51) and by 7.6% of patients with placebo (n=53), the between-group difference was 78.7% (p<0.0001). Cure rate in PP was 86.0% with Vit. C (n=50) and 6.1% with placebo (n=49), between-group difference was 79.9% (p<0.0001).

Both Vit. C and placebo were well tolerated and no differences in safety profile were evident between groups. The results support an effective and safe use of silicon-coated Vit. C vaginal tablets in the management of BV.

More bacterial vaginosis natural cures!

Click here to visit the bacterial vaginosis natural cure website.

Treatment of bacterial vaginosis: comparing secnidazole and metronidazole

2010-11-05T23:50:00.000-07:00

From: Infect Dis Obstet Gynecol 2010;2010. pii: 705692.

Abstract:

Multiple-dose metronidazole oral therapy is currently the reference treatment for bacterial vaginosis (BV). This double-blind, double-dummy, noninferiority study compared the efficacy of secnidazole, another nitroimidazole with pharmacokinetics allowing a single dose regimen, to this standard treatment.

A total of 577 patients were randomized to receive metronidazole (500 mg, b.i.d for seven days) or secnidazole (2 g, once). Therapeutic cure at D28 was defined as the resolution of vaginal discharge, positive KOH whiff test, vaginal pH >4.5 and Nugent score >7 on Gram-stained vaginal fluid.

According to this primary endpoint, the single-dose secnidazole regimen was shown to be at least as effective as the multiple-dose metronidazole regimen (60.1 % cured women vs 59.5% , 95% confidence interval with a noninferiority margin of 10%: [-0.082; 0.0094]). Safety profiles were comparable in both groups.

The secnidazole regimen studied represents an effective, convenient therapeutic alternative that clinicians should consider in routine practice.

What about natural cures for bacterial vaginosis? Do they work?

Find out in this 3 days to permanent bacterial vaginosis relief review.

Antibiotic use in bacterial vaginosis

2010-03-10T06:42:00.000-08:00

From: Curr Infect Dis Rep. 2009 Nov;11(6):471-5.

Abstract:

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a syndrome characterized by the loss of indigenous vaginal lactobacilli and massive polymicrobial anaerobic vaginal overgrowth of elusive etiology.

Although progress has occurred in defining the composition of the vaginal microbiome using DNA amplifications, rapidly accumulating data have not resulted in therapeutic advantage. Bacterial vaginosis treatment options remain limited and outcome often unsatisfactory, particularly regarding the frequent recurrence of bacterial vaginosis, leading to enormous frustration among patients and practitioners.

This review does not address the important issues of transmission, diagnosis, and complications of BV, but focuses on antimicrobial activity of current drugs and their limitations in vitro and in vivo. Recognizing these limitations should allow for either development of new antibiotics or for innovative use of currently available drugs in new study protocols.

=> Learn how you can achieve permanent BV relief with natural bacterial vaginosis cures<==

Adding boric acid to antibiotic treatment in recurrent bacterial vaginosis

2010-02-23T19:30:00.000-08:00

From: Sex Transm Dis. 2009 Nov;36(11):732-4.

Abstract:

Recurrent bacterial vaginosis (BV) is extremely common and a source of frustration to patient and practitioners alike. In the absence of curative therapy, practitioners resort to retreating each individual episode.

It has been suggested that vaginal biofilm in BV facilitates persistence of bacterial pathogens. Accordingly, topical boric acid aimed at biofilm removal was added to nitroimidazole induction and maintenance therapy creating a triple phase regimen to reduce symptomatic recurrence of BV in high-risk patients.

Uncontrolled, nonrandomized, retrospective chart review of patients with recurring BV treated with 7 days of oral nitroimidazole; followed by 21 days of intravaginal BA 600 mg/day and, if in remission, treated with metronidazole gel twice weekly for 16 weeks. Outcome was determined using Amsel criteria.

Fifty-eight women were treated for a total of 77 episodes of recurring BV. Sixty episodes of BV were available for a follow-up evaluation 4 to 12 weeks after enrollment, having completed both nitroimidazole and boric acid therapy and before initiating vaginal metronidazole gel.

Cure after nitroimidazole and boric acid therapy ranged from 88% to 92%, 7 and 12 weeks after the initial visit, respectively.

Cumulative cure at 12, 16, and 28 weeks from initial visit was 87%, 78%, and 65%, respectively. A failure rate of 50% was documented by 36 weeks of follow-up. No adverse effects of BA were observed.

Clinical experience with a triple phase maintenance regimen for women with recurring bacterial vaginosis was encouraging but requires validation in a prospective randomized controlled study.

==>Learn how to permanently relieve BV with bacterial vaginosis over the counter treatment and natural BV cure<==

Recurrent Bacterial Vaginosis

2010-02-21T19:37:00.000-08:00

From: Aust Fam Physician. 2009 Jun;38(6):394-7.

Abstract:

Bacterial vaginosis is the commonest cause of abnormal vaginal discharge in women of reproductive age and is associated with serious pregnancy related sequelae and increased transmission of sexually transmissible infections, including HIV. The aetiology, pathology, microbiology and transmission of bacterial vaginosis remain poorly understood.

This article discusses the prevalence, clinical features and possible complications of bacterial vaginosis. It summarises what is known about the aetiology, pathophysiology and treatment of the condition and highlights directions for further research.

Bacterial vaginosis is characterised by a complex disturbance of the normal vaginal flora with an overgrowth of anaerobic and other micro-organisms, and a corresponding decrease in important lactobacillus species. The cause is not known, but observational evidence suggests the possibility of sexual transmission.

Bacterial vaginosis is diagnosed by the Amsel or the Nugent method. Recommended bacterial vaginosis treatments is with 7 days of oral metronidazole or vaginal clindamycin. More than 50% of women will experience recurring bacterial vaginosis within 6 months. It is not known whether this represents relapse or re-infection. Further research is needed into the aetiology, pathogenesis and optimal treatment of this condition.

==>Click here to learn how you can get permanent BV relief with simple BV home remedies<==

Probiotic Lactobacilli for urogenital health in women

2010-02-15T08:37:00.000-08:00

From: J Clin Gastroenterol. 2008 Sep;42 Suppl 3 Pt 2:S234-6.

Abstract:

The microbiota of the vagina form mostly from ascension of microbes from the rectal area. The numbers and types of microbes fluctuates with hormone levels, sexual contact, douching, and diet, yet the basic composition is relatively simple, with lactobacilli dominant in healthy females.

The depletion of these organisms in women susceptible to urinary and vaginal infections, raised the question of whether artificial supplementation of lactobacilli could lower infection rates.

To date, a 2-strain combination of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14 have proved to be the most effective at restoring and maintaining a normal vaginal microbiota. Other organisms show promise in resolving diseases that afflict over 1 billion women worldwide each year.

The mechanisms involved have not been completely resolved, but seem to include modulation of host immunity, reduction in pathogen ascension from the rectum, and interference with colonization and survival of pathogens.

Other bacterial vaginosis home remedies to get rid of BV and protect women's urogenital health...

Bacterial vaginosis treatment and the risk of recurrence

2010-02-12T02:57:00.000-08:00

From: J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2009 Dec;18(12):1997-2004.

Abstract:

Recommended regimens for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis (BV) have similar efficacy; thus, the choice of bacterial vaginosis treatments should consider additional factors such as risk of BV recurrence and side effect profile.

The purpose of this study was to investigate BV recurrence rates and rates of acquiring vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) after different BV treatments in a commercially insured population.

Private administrative insurance claims from 2004 to 2006 were used. Study subjects were continuously enrolled females 12-50 years of age who filled prescriptions for BV treatment (n=32,268). The four BV treatments (single-dose clindamycin vaginal cream (2%), multiple-dose clindamycin vaginal regimens, vaginal metronidazole, and oral metronidazole) were compared for rates of recurrent BV and VVC after treatment using multivariate analyses. Covariates included sociodemographic and clinical characteristics.

Overall, the rate of recurring bacterial vaginosis (2.7%), and VVC post-treatment (2.9%) were low. Women who were treated with single-dose clindamycin vaginal cream (2%) showed no significant difference from women treated with oral metronidazole in the likelihood of BV recurrence. However, women who received other vaginal treatments were significantly more likely to experience BV recurrence compared with women who received oral metronidazole.

Moreover, women who were treated with single-dose clindamycin vaginal cream (2%) and vaginal metronidazole were significantly less likely to have VVC compared with those treated with oral metronidazole.

This study suggests that single-dose clindamycin vaginal cream (2%) may be a good alternative to oral metronidazole for the treatment of BV, given the low rates of recurrence and subsequent VVC demonstrated in this analysis.

BV keeps coming back to visit? Learn how to cure BV naturally in 3 days with 3 steps - all in 3 Days to Permanent Bacterial Vaginosis Relief.

Predictors of bacterial vaginosis in adolescent women who douche

2010-02-03T02:57:00.000-08:00

From: Sex Transm Dis. 2004 Jul;31(7):433-6.

While what exactly causes bacterial vaginosis (BV) is unknown, douching and sexual activity are known as two of the risk factors for BV. The goal of this study was to determine to what extent douching is significant as a risk factor for BV.

In this randomized study, 250 adolescent women who regularly douched were enrolled. Behavioral questionnaires and testing for sexually transmitted diseases and BV were performed. Associations between baseline characteristics and behaviors were compared for teens who were BV-positive and BV-negative at baseline.

Factors that correlated with BV included multiple partners, recent sexual intercourse, douching after menses, recent douching, and gonorrhea. Of these, douching after menses showed the strongest association, with almost a 5-fold increased risk.

The study concluded that douching after menses was strongly correlated with BV; however, difficulty remains in trying to evaluate douching and sexual behavior independently.

Learn how to get rid of BV from the complete BV cure guide, read the Bacterial Vaginosis Freedom review.

Alternative therapies for bacterial vaginosis

2010-01-31T06:12:00.000-08:00

From: Altern Ther Health Med. 2005 Sep-Oct;11(5):38-43.

This article reviews current research into non-antibiotic treatments for bacterial vaginosis and assesses interest in the use of alternative therapies for women's health in a non-representative sample of women.

A sample of 192 women was selected from an online community focusing on the discussion of women's health for review. Data collected on alternative bacterial vaginosis treatments are mixed.

Studies have shown both positive and no effects for probiotic- and lactic acid-based treatments.

The results of antiseptic studies were more uniformly positive, but the studies were generally not placebo-controlled.

Women in the survey population were both interested in and experienced with alternative and complementary therapies for reproductive health problems. About 44% of them had used bacterial vaginosis home remedies or other natural remedies to treat vaginal infections or menstrual problems. Only 20% indicated that antibiotics and antifungals would be their treatment of choice.

In conclusion, women are interested in alternative treatments for women's health problems such as yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. Although such treatments have been investigated, further research of high quality is strongly needed.

Click here to read the best-selling BV natural cure guide 3 Days to Permanent Bacterial Vaginosis Relief review, and get rid of BV forever!

Bacterial vaginosis and personal hygienic behaviors

2010-01-27T18:33:00.000-08:00

From: Sex Transm Dis 2009 Oct 9. [Epub ahead of print]

Vaginal douching is consistently associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV), but whether it is a cause or result of BV remains unknown. The association between BV and other feminine hygienic behaviors is less studied. If BV symptoms caused behavior change then all hygiene behaviors might be more common among women with BV. Lack of association between non-douching hygiene behavior and BV would argue against reverse causation.

In a Longitudinal Study of Vaginal Flora, 3620 women had 13,517 visits where BV (Nugent score) was assessed.

After adjusting for demographic and sexual behavior factors, neither type of underwear (nylon vs. cotton), menstrual protection (tampons vs. pads), use of pads or panty liners when not menstruating, nor weekly or greater use of hygiene spray, powder or towlettes were strongly associated with BV.

Douching remained associated with BV and was not substantially impacted by adjustment for other hygienic behavior.

Douching, but not other feminine hygiene behaviors, is significantly associated with BV, providing additional evidence that douching may be causally associated with BV and is not simply a response to BV symptoms.

Stop BV quickly and permanently without using drugs with "3 Days to Permanent Bacterial Vaginosis Relief"!

L. crispatus promotes the stability of the normal vaginal microflora in pregnancy

2010-01-25T18:33:00.000-08:00

From: BMC Microbiol 2009 Jun 2;9:116.

Despite their antimicrobial potential, vaginal lactobacilli often fail to retain dominance, resulting in overgrowth of the vagina by other bacteria, as observed with bacterial vaginosis. It remains elusive however to what extent interindividual differences in vaginal Lactobacillus community composition determine the stability of this microflora.

In a prospective cohort study involving pregnant women, the stability of the normal vaginal microflora as a function of the presence of the vaginal Lactobacillus index species was assessed.

Vaginal swabs were obtained from 100 consecutive Caucasian women at mean gestational ages of 8.6, 21.2, and 32.4 weeks. Based on Gram stain method, 77 women had normal or Lactobacillus-dominated vaginal microflora during the first trimester. However, 13 women with normal VMF at the beginning of the study converted to abnormal vaginal microflora in the second or third trimester to abnormal vaginal microflora defined as vaginal microflora dominated by non-Lactobacillus bacteria.

The study found that vaginal microflora that consists of non-Lactobacillus crispatus type, i.e. L. gasseri and/or L. iners were 10 times more likely to convert from normal to abnormal vaginal microflora. Normal vaginal microflora comprising L. crispatus had a five-fold decreased risk of converting to abnormal vaginal microflora compared with non-L. crispatus vaginal microflora.

The study concluded that the presence of different Lactobacillus species with the normal vaginal microflora is a major determinant to the stability of this microflora in pregnancy. The L. crispatus bacteria promotes the stability of the normal vaginal microflora, while L. gasseri and/or L. iners predispose to some extent to the occurrence of abnormal vaginal microflora.

Can you cure bacterial vaginosis with the best bacterial vaginosis cures, naturally?

Adding boric acid to suppressive antimicrobial therapy for treating recurrent bacterial vaginosis

2010-01-18T06:47:00.000-08:00

From: Sex Transm Dis 2009 Nov;36(11):732-4.

Recurring bacterial vaginosis (BV) is extremely common and a source of frustration to patient and practitioners alike. In the absence of curative therapy, practitioners resort to retreating each individual episode. It has been suggested that vaginal biofilm in BV facilitates persistence of bacterial pathogens.

Accordingly, topical boric acid (BA) aimed at biofilm removal was added to nitroimidazole induction and maintenance therapy creating a triple phase regimen to reduce symptomatic recurrence of BV in high-risk patients.

This study reviewed patients with recurring BV and who were treated with 7 days of oral nitroimidazole, followed by 21 days of intravaginal BA 600 mg/day, and, if in remission, treated with metronidazole gel twice weekly for 16 weeks.

A total of 58 women were treated for a total of 77 episodes of BV. 60 episodes of BV were available for a follow-up evaluation 4 to 12 weeks after enrollment, having completed both nitroimidazole and BA therapy and before initiating vaginal metronidazole gel.

Cure after nitroimidazole and BA therapy ranged from 88% to 92%, 7 and 12 weeks after the initial visit, respectively. Cumulative cure at 12, 16, and 28 weeks from initial visit was 87%, 78%, and 65%, respectively. A failure rate of 50% was documented by 36 weeks of follow-up. No adverse effects of BA were observed.

The study reported that the clinical experience with a triple phase maintenance regimen for women with recurring BV was encouraging, but requires further studies for validation.

Discover natural bacterial vaginosis cures and get rid of bacterial vaginosis permanently!

Intravaginal Lactobacillus capsule for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis - A women's satisfaction report

2010-01-17T00:34:00.000-08:00

From: J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2006 Nov;15(9):1053-60.

This study assessed women's satisfaction on the use of a vaginal capsule containing human-derived, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-producing Lactobacillus crispatus at the end of a study for treatment of bacterial vaginosis (BV).

The study enrolled women aged 14-35 years and suffering from BV. These women were randomly assigned to two groups - one group received Lactobacillus intravaginal capsule and the other group received placebo capsules (without knowing that there's no Lactobacillus in the capsules). The women used their intravaginal capsule twice daily for 3 days monthly, for 3 months.

At the end of the study, 232 women reported about their satisfaction during the final visit. Overall, satisfaction with the capsule was high and was independent of the woman's race, age, and prior history of BV. Report of satisfaction with the capsule, belief that it contained healthy bacteria, and belief that its use improved vaginal health, were all directly related to clinical cure. Most women in the study believed that the capsule contained healthy bacteria independent of any outcome reflecting cure. Adverse effects were rare and were largely related to a perceived difference in vaginal discharge.

Satisfaction with an intravaginal capsule and positive beliefs about its use for BV treatment were very common, especially among women showing a response to the BV therapy. However, most women said that they are willing to use the product again regardless of clinical response. This shows that women are willing to accept and are interested in alternative BV treatments, such as L. crispatus intravaginal applications.

Learn more on natural bacterial vaginosis cures, and get permanent relief from BV symptoms!

The effect of vaginal douching cessation on bacterial vaginosis

2010-01-13T18:38:00.000-08:00

From: Am J Obstet Gynecol 2008 Jun;198(6):628.e1-7.

One of the primary reasons that women douche is to cleanse after menstruation. Douching has been associated with increased risk of getting bacterial vaginosis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the risk for bacterial vaginosis (BV) if women ceased to douche.

The study enrolled 39 women of reproductive age who reported to be using douche products. The study was 20 weeks long and consisted of three phases:
* Phase I - 4 weeks douching observation period;
* Phase II - 12 weeks douching cessation period; and
* Phase III - Participants chose to resume douching or continue cessation for the remaining weeks.

In the first 16 weeks, women self collected their vaginal samples twice weekly. During the last week (week 20), vaginal sample was collected once.

After an analysis was performed, the study found that bacterial vaginosis was significantly reduced when women stopped douching, indicating that vaginal douching cessation may reduce the risk of bacterial vaginosis in a subgroup of women

What causes bacterial vaginosis or increase your risk for bacterial vaginosis?

Hydrogen peroxide-producing lactobacilli in women with vaginal infections

2010-01-12T19:56:00.000-08:00

From: Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2006 Nov;129(1):69-76

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-producing lactobacilli are present in the vagina of a majority of healthy reproductive age women. It is known that these lactobacilli have toxic and inhibitory effect against the overgrowth of pathogens in the vagina.

The aim of this study was to isolate lactobacilli from women with major vaginal infections: bacterial vaginosis (BV), vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) and trichomoniasis (TV), and from women with normal flora (NF), to test the ability of the lactobacilli to produce H2O2. The study also quantitated lactobacilli and evaluated factors related to the colonization of vagina with H2O2-producing lactobacilli.

Lactobacilli were found in 81.5% of women with VVC, 58% of women with BV, 55% of women with TV, and 86% of women with NF. The majority of isolates of lactobacilli from women with VVC, TV and NF produced H2O2 (77%, 63.5% and 80%, respectively), but in women with BV only 26.5% of the lactobacilli isolates produced H2O2.

What are the available over the counter bacterial vaginosis treatment options? Find out...

A study on the use of lactobacillus acidophilus-based douche for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis

2010-01-10T19:32:00.000-08:00

From: J Altern Complement Med 2007 May;13(4):435-8.

The characteristic sign of bacterial vaginosis is the alteration of the normal vaginal microflora, in which a mixed anaerobic bacterial flora outnumbers the population of lactobacilli, which maintains a healthy vagina environment

Probiotics are believed to offer some utility in restoring a normal flora. This preliminary study aimed to evaluate the effect of a Lactobacillus acidophilus-strain-based douche on the vaginal environment in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis.

In this study, 40 women with bacterial vaginosis were treated for 6 days with a douche containing L. acidophilus. Vaginal smears were collected from those women for analysis after 6 days of treatment, and again at 20 days after the last treatment. At the same time, vaginal pH was determined and a Whiff test were performed to test for presence of fishy vaginal odor.

Results showed that there was a shift towards a normal vaginal flora during treatment in almost all the women. There were fewer women with bacterial vaginosis at post-treatment follow-up. After treatment, there were significant decreases in vaginal pH to less than pH 4.5 in 34/40 women. The odor test also became negative in all of the women patients.

In this preliminary study, treatment of bacterial vaginosis with a vaginal douche containing a strain of L. acidophilus contributed to the restoration of a normal vaginal environment.

Human lactobacilli supplementing clindamycin reduces recurrence rates in bacterial vaginosis

2010-01-09T21:02:00.000-08:00

From: BMC Womens Health 2008 Jan 15;8:3.

The main goal of this study was to investigate if supplementary lactobacilli treatment could improve the initial cure rate after vaginal clindamycin therapy, and secondly, if lactobacilli as repeated adjunct treatment for 3 menstrual cycles could prolong the relapse time after initial cure.

In the study, 100 women with bacterial vaginosis were offered vaginal clindamycin therapy followed by vaginal gelatine capsules containing either 109 freeze-dried lactobacilli or identical placebo capsules, for 10 days, and for 3 menstrual cycles.

Can you be BV-free in 3 days? Find out how.

At one month, the cured rate was 77% in the lactobacilli group versus 78% in the placebo group (not significantly different). The cured women were followed for 6 menstrual cycles or until relapse within that time span. At the end of the study, about 65% of the lactobacilli-treated women were still BV free compared to 46% of the placebo-treated women. Comparison of the two groups regarding "Time from cure to relapse" was statistically significant in favour of the lactobacilli treatment.

Adjuvant therapy with lactobacilli contributed significantly to the prevention of relapse with a 27% lower risk compared to no lactobacilli treatment.

The study concluded that supplementary treatment combining two different strains of probiotic lactobacilli does not improve the efficacy of BV therapy during the first month of treatment, but for women initially cured, adjunct treatment with lactobacilli during 3 menstrual cycles dramatically lengthens the time to relapse, such that more women remained BV free up to 6 months.

Common complementary and alternative therapies for bacterial vaginosis and yeast vaginitis

2010-01-07T20:56:00.000-08:00

From: Obstet Gynecol Surv 2003 May;58(5):351-8.

This authors reviewed the medical literature on the 5 most widely used complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies, popularly used as home remedies for bacterial vaginosis and yeast vaginitis.

Main findings of the review include:

* Lactobacillus recolonization (via yogurt or capsules) shows promise for the treatment of both bacterial vaginosis and yeast vaginitis with little potential for harm.

* Boric acid can be recommended to women with recurrent vulvovaginal Candidal infections who are resistant to conventional therapies, but can occasionally cause vaginal burning.

* Douching remains a practice that should not be recommended for the treatment of vaginitis.

* Tea tree oil and garlic show some in vitro potential for the treatment of vaginitis, but studies involving real patients are required before they can be recommended clinically.

Well-designed randomized, controlled trials investigating the efficacy and safety of these therapies for vaginitis are needed before any reliable clinical recommendations can be made.

How to lower the rate of bacterial vaginosis recurrences

2010-01-07T07:18:00.000-08:00

From: New Microbiol 2008 Jul;31(3):429-33.

In this study, 84 patients with bacterial vaginosis diagnosed according to Amsel's criteria were randomized to receive either:

a. Oral metronidazole 500 mg, twice a day for seven days, or
b. One vaginal tablet containing freeze-dried Lactobacillus rhamnosus, once a week at bedtime for two months, starting one week after the last antibiotic administration.

Followup was performed at days 30, 90 and 180. Statistic analysis showed a significant difference between the two treatment groups at day 90 (P = 0.05). The study results indicate that safe and effective long-term vaginal administration of Lactobacillus rhamnosus appears to be a useful complementary approach in the management of bacterial vaginosis.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Discover some of the simple bacterial vaginosis home remedies to help relieve BV symptoms rapidly!

Bacterial vaginosis treatment failure in women who have sex with women

2010-01-06T09:05:00.000-08:00

From: Ann Intern Med 2008 Jul 1;149(1):20-8.

Bacterial vaginosis frequently persists or tend to recur after treatment. The authors of this study aimed to define the risks for bacterial vaginosis persistence, including pretreatment detection of specific vaginal bacteria, among women reporting sex with women.

The study recruited over 300 women aged 16 to 29 years and who have reported sex with at least 1 woman in the past year.

Bacterial vaginosis was treated with intravaginal metronidazole gel (0.75%), 37.5 mg nightly for 5 nights.

Of all women (355), 24% of whom also reported sex with men within 3 months before enrolled into the study, 131 (39%) had bacterial vaginosis. In the 120 (92%) women who returned for follow-up, the incidence of persistent bacterial vaginosis was 26% and was statistically significantly higher in women who were detected with several specific bacteria types at the beginning of the study.

Bacterial vaginosis was less persistence in those who adhered to the treatment. Detection of these bacteria at the test-of-cure visit was associated with persistence, whereas posttreatment sexual activity was not.

In conclusion, persistent bacterial vaginosis is associated with several bacteria in the vagina, suggesting that bacteria present at diagnosis may predict the risk for antibiotic failure.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Learn how recurring bacterial vaginosis can be managed!

Probiotics for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis

2010-01-05T19:02:00.000-08:00

From: Clin Microbiol Infect 2007 Jul;13(7):657-64.

This review article looks at various evidence to evaluate whether probiotics are effective agents for the treatment and prevention of bacterial vaginosis (BV).

The absence or low concentrations of vaginal lactobacilli appears to be associated with the development of BV. Many studies have suggested that the presence of H2O2-producing vaginal lactobacilli may protect against BV. However, some studies do not support this hypothesis.

In-vitro studies have suggested that certain specific strains of lactobacilli are able to inhibit Gardnerella vaginalis (BV-causing bacteria) from adhering to the vaginal epithelium, and produce H2O2, lactic acid and/or bacteriocins, which stop the growth of anaerobic bacteria that cause BV.

Clinical trials showed that intra-vaginal administration of Lactobacillus acidophilus for 6-12 days, or oral administration of L. acidophilus or Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus fermentum RC-14 for 2 months, resulted in:

The cure of BV
Reduced recurrences of BV
An increase in vaginal lactobacilli and restoration of a normal vaginal microbiota

These positive outcomes were significantly more frequent in women treated with the probiotics than women who received a placebo, acetic acid or no treatment.

On the other hand, several studies did not find any significant difference in the cure rate of BV and in the number of vaginal lactobacilli after intra-vaginal instillation of lactobacilli, when compared with the effect of a placebo or estrogen.

The review concluded that the available results concerning the effectiveness of lactobacilli for the treatment of BV are mostly positive, but cannot yet be concluded definitively that probiotics are useful for this purpose.

--------------------------------------------------------
Discover the secret plan to eliminate bacterial vaginosis in 3 days using natural methods!

High recurrence rates of bacterial vaginosis after oral metronidazole therapy

2010-01-04T19:54:00.000-08:00

From: J Infect Dis 2006 Jun 1;193(11):1478-86.

The investigators of this study wanted to determine the incidence of recurring bacterial vaginosis (BV) after treatment over the course of 12 months, and also to establish factors contributing to recurrence.

In the study, women with symptomatic BV were enrolled. BV was treated with 400 mg of oral metronidazole twice a day for 7 days. Participating women completed a questionnaire and vaginal swabs were collected at the time points of 1, 3, 6, and 12 months.

Among 139 women enrolled into the study, 68 women (58%) had a recurrence of BV and 84 women (69%) had a recurrence of abnormal vagina flora by 12 months. Factors that were found to significantly associated to recurrence of BV and abnormal vagina flora were:

A past history of BV;
A regular sex partner throughout the study; and
Female sex partners were significantly associated with recurrence of BV and abnormal vaginal flora.

The use of hormonal contraception didn't appear to have a positive association with BV recurrence.

The investigators concluded that the current recommended treatment is not preventing recurring bacterial vaginosis or abnormal vaginal flora in the majority of women with BV.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Acidophilus supplements

Natrol Acidophilus, Capsules, Value Size, 300 capsules (Pack of 2)

Nature's Bounty Acidophilus, 100 Capsules (Pack of 4)

Now Foods Acidophilus/bifidus 8 Billion, 60 Capsules (Pack of 2)

Vaginitis is a common malady

2010-01-03T09:06:00.000-08:00

From: Prim Care 1988 Sep;15(3):517-47.

Approximately 90%of all the vaginitis (inflammation of vagina) are caused by bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis, or trichomoniasis. Bacterial vaginosis is the most frequent, causing approximately 50% of vaginal infections.

As described by Amsel and colleagues, three of four findings or symptoms indicate bacterial vaginosis: amine odor (fishy vaginal odor), pH greater than 4.5, clue cells, and a thin homogeneous discharge. Because G. vaginalis colonizes the vagina, treatment should not be instituted in an asymptomatic woman on the basis of a positive culture. For symptomatic patients, oral metronidazole 500 mg twice daily for 7 days is the currently recommended medicinal bacterial vaginosis treatments.

Vulvovaginal pruritus should be equated with candidiasis until proven otherwise. Mycelia or spores on 10 per cent KOH preparation are diagnostic of candidiasis in the presence of symptoms. Imidazole creams or suppositories are the treatment of choice. Trichomoniasis is characterized by malodor and mild pruritus. Demonstration of trichomonads on saline preparation or a positive culture provides the diagnosis. A single 2 gm dose of oral metronidazole is the initial treatment.

Recurrences requires investigation regarding predisposing factors and investigation of sexual partners. Vaginitis can recur, but if approached properly, these recurrences can be minimized, allowing the patient to proceed with daily life in comfort.

Treatment of recurrent bacterial vaginosis - utilization of hydrogen peroxide

2010-01-02T11:36:00.000-08:00

From: Minerva Ginecol 2003 Dec;55(6):483-92.

The authors of a study have evaluated the real efficacy of using hydrogen peroxide for previously treated recurrent bacterial vaginosis that is resistant to other forms of treatment.

The study included 58 women aged between 18-42 years old. Vaginal irrigations with 30 ml of hydrogen peroxide (3%) were prescribed in the evening for 7 days. The women were follow-up 3 months after the end of treatment.

The results clearly show that the use of hydrogen peroxide in vagina can eliminate the main symptoms of bacterial vaginosis, and in particular the malodorous leucoxanthorrhea in 89% of cases at 3 months after the end of treatment. This result is similar to that obtained using metronidazole or clindamycin as a vaginal cream.

Moreover, hydrogen peroxide facilitates the restoration of normal vaginal bacterial flora (represented by H202-producing lactobacillus) in 100% of cases and normal acid pH (pH<4.5) in 98% of cases. The amine test became negative in 97.8% of cases.

In conclusion, hydrogen peroxide represents a valid option to conventional treatments for recurrent bacterial vaginosis. It has not associated with any side effects; it is a low-cost treatment with excellent tolerability and real therapeutic efficacy.

Using Lactobacillus to prevent vagina bacterial infection

2010-01-01T02:47:00.000-08:00

From: Microbes Infect 2002 Mar;4(3):319-24.

The use and potential of Lactobacillus to prevent infections of the urogenital and intestinal tracts has been reviewed. The presence and dominance of the naturally occurring Lactobacillus in the vagina is protective against bacterial vaginosis and urinary tract infections. The mechanisms appear to involve different factors, including by-products such as hydrogen peroxide and bacteriocins, which are lethal to pathogens (bad bacteria) in the vagina surrounding.

The introduction of certain Lactobacillus strains (e.g. GR-1, B-54, RC-14) into the vagina has been shown to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections, and improve the maintenance of a normal vaginal flora. Ingestion of these strains into the digestive system also appeared to modify the vaginal flora to a more healthy state. In addition, these strains retard the growth of intestinal, as well as urogenital pathogens, colonize the gut and protect against infections as shown in animal studies.

Other probiotic strains, such as Lactobacillus GG, have been shown to prevent and treat gastroenteritis caused by rotavirus and bacteria. More studies are still needed to define the mechanisms how the the different Lactobacillus strains contribute to restoration and maintenance of healthy vagina environment. Such critically important studies will require the medical science community to show a willingness to turn away from pharmaceutical remedies as the only solution to health and disease.

Read about natural cures for bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis in pregnancy

2009-12-31T09:38:00.000-08:00

From: Obstet Gynecol Surv 2000 May;55(5 Suppl 1):S1-19.

Bacterial vaginosis is a clinical vaginal disorder as a result of replacement of the normal hydrogen peroxide-producing Lactobacillus species in the vagina with excessive number of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria.

Bacterial vaginosis is the most prevalent cause of excessive vaginal discharge or malodor (fishy vaginal odor), although up to 50% of women with this condition are asymptomatic. Bacterial vaginosis is reported in 10-41% of women, and is associated with complications in mother and baby before and during childbirth.

Bacterial vaginosis infection during pregnancy has been shown to increase the risk of spontaneous abortion, premature birth, preterm labor, amniotic fluid infection, preterm premature rupture of the membranes, postpartum endometritis, and postcesarean wound infections. Appropriate screening and antimicrobial treatments would significantly reduce these adverse events.

New low-cost, diagnostic, point-of-care screening tools are available for rapid screening of patients, affording the physician the opportunity to potentially make a huge clinical and cost impact in preventing preterm birth and the costly consequence of prematurity. Practicing physicians need to be aware of current guidelines for screening and treating pregnant patients for bacterial vaginosis.

Bacterial vaginosis is associated with adverse pregnancy consequences

2009-12-31T06:30:00.000-08:00

From: Semin Perinatol 1998 Aug;22(4):242-50.

Bacterial vaginosis is the most common lower genital tract infection among women of reproductive age. It is best considered as a vaginal disorder related to a change in the normal vaginal flora instead of an infection due to any specific microorganism. Bacterial vaginosis is characterized by a reduced concentration of a normally abundant Lactobacillus species coupled with increased concentrations of gram-negative and anaerobic bacteria, particularly, Gardnerella vaginalis. Other anaerobic bacteria include Mobiluncus, Bacteroides, Prevotella, and Mycoplasma species.

Previously bacterial vaginosis was regarded as a harmless condition, but recent observations has suggested a link between bacterial vaginosis and a number of upper genital tract complications such as preterm delivery and preterm labor, preterm premature rupture of the membranes, chorioamnionitis, and postpartum endometritis.

Recent randomized clinical trials indicated that treating bacterial vaginosis in certain women who are at high risk for preterm delivery is able to decrease risk of preterm birth.