Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) in Pregnancy

Overview

Did you know that there are trillions of micro-organisms in our body and that they outnumber our cells by 10 to 1? Surprising, isn't it? But, don't worry. They are useful kind. These bacteria actually help our bodies carry out some pivotal functions, like digestion! That's right. Escherichia coli, a bacteria that grows naturally in our intestine, actually plays a critical role in digestion.

Similarly, a myriad of bacterial colonies resides in your vagina, and they are collectively known as vaginal flora. The colonizing bacteria are predominantly the Lactobacillus. These bacteria produce lactic acid, which contributes to vaginal acidity and also helps to prevent infections from pathogenic species. 

Atopobium vaginae, Peptostreptococcus spp., Staphylococcus spp., and c are a few other microbial species found in the vagina that assist in maintaining the pH. A healthy balance between all of these species is crucial for a healthy vagina. 

In this article, we're going to talk about one such very common vaginal infection which takes place wherever this balance is distorted. When the number of Lactobacillus decreases and there is an increase in the number of bacteria like Gardnerella vaginalis and Peptostreptococcus anaerobius, it results in Bacterial Vaginosis.

It isn't exactly an "infection" rather an abnormality in the balance of the bacteria already present in the vagina. 

It is one of the most common vaginal infections that women in their reproductive age groups (age 15 to 44 years) generally suffer from.

Let's discuss the causes and symptoms of these diseases and also a few tips on how to prevent it. 

What causes Bacterial Vaginosis?

Although researchers and scientists have a hard time determining what exactly causes this infection, it is primarily due to the decrease in the Lactobacillus antagonism. At the same time, the number of anaerobic bacteria increases that result in the said infection. 

Let's take a look at some factors that increase the risk of the infection:

• Smoking: The trace amounts of benxo[a]pyrene-diol epoxide (BPDE) present in smoking and its anti-estrogenic effect favor the occurrence of Bacterial Vaginosis. 
• Having multiple or a new sex partner: Although the reason hasn't been concerned out yet, studies show that women having multiple sex partners are more prone to this infection. Also, women having partners of the same sex tend to have an increased risk of getting Bacterial Vaginosis by up to 60%.
• Douching: The act of cleaning out the inside of one's vagina is called douching and this method is actually strongly discouraged by the U.S Department of Health and Human Services because it alters the balance of the vaginal flora and effectively predisposes women to get affected by Bacterial Vaginosis. 
• IUDs: Women who use Intra-Uterine Devices or IUDs as a contraceptive method are also prone to Bacterial Vaginosis. 

Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis?

Sometimes the symptoms are hard to recognize but this infection is often accompanied by these indications:

• Thin, grey, or green vaginal discharge
• Foul, fishy order from the vagina
• Burning sensation during urination
• Itching

Prevention Of Bacterial Vaginosis? 

• Make sure you dry your pubic and vaginal area after bathing.
• Avoid douching and over-washing your vagina.
• Don't use strong perfumes or deodorants around your vagina. Use unscented tampons and sanitary napkins.
• Change your pads and tampons at regular intervals.
• Use proper contraception during intercourse and get checked for STDs regularly. 

How to get Bacterial Vaginosis treated?

Even though Bacterial Vaginosis isn't fatal or extremely "serious", if unchecked it can lead to many complications, especially in pregnant women. BV increases the chances of getting infected by diseases like Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Herpes, and even HIV by enhancing the susceptibility to the associated viruses.

During pregnancy, BV can lead to:

• Premature delivery
• Breakage of the amniotic sac
• Inflammation of the uterus lining after post-delivery
• Chorioamnionitis, inflammation of the chorion and amnion, which also poses a higher risk of cerebral palsy in the baby.
• PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Diseases) that increases the risk of infertility. 

Therefore, if you're facing the aforementioned symptoms, consulting a doctor, preferably your gynecologist is highly recommended. This infection isn't something that is difficult to cure.

Treatment is generally done with antibiotics like metronidazole or clindamycin. The recurrence rate of this infection is high so you shouldn't be scared if that happens. Metronidazole, vaginal clindamycin cream, and tinidazole are a few other medications used to treat BV. However, always consult your doctor before restoring to any medication.