Difference Between Bv And Yeast Infection
Yeast infections are a lot more spoken about, and yet they are only the second most common vaginal issue. They are beaten by the BV and yet BV is spoken about a lot less.
You may think that these two infections are quite similar, and yet that couldnt be any further from the truth.
Common symptoms of a yeast infection include a burning feeling in or around the vagina and itchiness as well.
There will also be white discharge that is often associated with looking like cottage cheese. This discharge may have a slight yeast smell.
While the discharge associated with BV has a strong fishy odor and a thin consistency. Although, if you have any of these systems, you should do and seek a healthcare provider who can perform a simple test to determine which of these infections you could possibly have.
Both are very easy to treat and may have similar causes. As a result, it could be easy to confuse the two for each other. Yet they are both two very different infections, but they are the two most common infections that you can get.
Thus, it is always best to go and seek help if you have any problems down there, otherwise if you leave it untreated, as already mentioned, then it could lead to further problems later on in life. Especially if you want to conceive children naturally.
Antimicrobial Activity Against Pathogens
The antagonistic activity of the L. rhamnosus TOM 22.8 strain against E. coli ATCC 700414, E. coli ATCC 25922, G. vaginalis ATCC 14018, G. vaginalis ATCC 14019, C. albicans ATCC 10231, C. krusei ATCC 14243, C. glabrata ATCC 90030, C. tropicalis ATCC 13803, C. parapsilosis ATCC 90018, and S. aureus ATCC 6538 was tested by the agar spot test following the method described by Pino et al.. Based on the diameter size of the inhibition zones, the antagonistic activity was scored as: no inhibition zone inhibition zone < 10 mm inhibition zone between 11 and 20 mm inhibition zone > 20 mm.
Which Strain Of Probiotic Do I Need
There are several types of probiotic formulas aimed at treating various conditions that afflict the female reproductive system. However, these formulas usually have one strain of bacteria in common: Lactobacillus. There are several strains of Lactobacillus that are known to have beneficial effects on vaginal health, and Lactobacillus has shown in many studies to be effective in treating several vaginal issues, as discussed below. Many women wonder if taking probiotics is really necessary for vaginal health, because the vagina is a self-regulating organ. While this is normally the case, women today are subjected to numerous medications, supplements, and other products that can upset the balance of the microorganisms in the vagina. Depending on the condition that needs to be treated, your probiotic needs may vary. When choosing a probiotic, make sure it has the correct types of probiotic bacteria , and that it has a sufficient dose to treat the intended condition. There are various ways to use probiotics for vaginal health ranging from eating probiotic foods to supplements to suppositories. When it comes to using probiotics, the timing of consumption is also important. Luckily, probiotics are generally considered to be safe and easy to use with only minimal, if any, side effects. However, those with compromised immune systems should consult with a physician before taking probiotics.
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The Best Probiotic For Bv Support Womens Health Needs
Women have a different anatomy than men do, which is why taking probiotics specifically designed for women can be important. Most probiotics for BV will also tackle other gut issues, digestive problems, immune issues, and feminine health-related problems. Taking a probiotic is a simple step that can directly impact the rest of your life.
Most of the best probiotics for BV were designed with specific feminine health concerns in mind. But that doesnt mean that they cannot help with other issues like urinary tract infections or yeast infections. Keeping your reproductive system healthy is imperative for women of any age especially those who want to have children.
Your feminine health depends on the good flora in your system to ward off infections that can lead to pain and discomfort including but not limited to BV.
What Are Probiotics And Why Are Probiotics Important For Women
Probiotics are good bacteria found naturally in our bodies. Theyre often called friendly bacteria due to their role in keeping the bad bacteria in check. There are 100 trillion of these powerful living micro-organisms whizzing round our stomachs and intestines. Whats their job? To help keep our bodies in perfect microbial harmony.1
Probiotics can help our bodies with many important daily functions. Did you know that probiotics can help with fighting depression?2 Theyre also credited with boosting our mood, supporting weight loss and fighting colds and flu? And not only that, they can help lower blood pressure and provide relief from the discomfort of cystitis and irritable bowel syndrome. Thats impressive stuff for something that you cant even see.
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Hydrogen Peroxide And Exopolysaccharide Production
The ability to produce hydrogen peroxide was evaluated as reported by Pino et al. and scored, based on the time needed to the appearance of blue coloration, as: absent low , medium and high H2O2 producer. The Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC 4356 strain was used as positive control.
The production of exopolysaccharide was evaluated following the phenol/sulphuric acid method and the produced amount, expressed as mg/l, was estimated using glucose as standard.
Bv In The Premenopausal And Postmenopausal Period
Vaginitis frequently occurs after reproductive age the three main types are BV, Trichomonas vaginalis vaginitis, and fungal vaginitis. Among these, BV is the most common, constituting 40% to 50% of all cases of vaginitis. BV usually occurs in vaginal environments of an increase in the intravaginal pH to > 4.5. G. vaginalis is the most frequently detected BV-causing bacterium, along with Prevotella spp., Porphyromonas spp., Bacteroides spp., Peptostreptococcus spp., Mycoplasma hominis, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Mobiluncus spp., Fusobacterium spp., and Atopobium vaginae. Increased G. vaginalis in the vaginal microflora is associated with frequent sexual intercourse, risky sexual practices, frequent use of vaginal douches, and other related behaviors. In these conditions, intravaginal epithelial cells are flattened, and beneficial bacteria such as lactobacilli are decreased or absent, whereas BV-causative bacteria are increased, thus leading to BV. Thus, BV exhibits a decreased concentration of lactobacilli and overproliferation of microorganisms such as G. vaginalis and other anaerobes. BV caused by pathogenic anaerobic bacteria is most prevalent in younger women, it spontaneously regresses in up to 50% of premenopausal women. BV is an important common cause of vaginitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and various sexually transmitted diseases.,
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Probiotic Strains For Bacterial Vaginosis
When it comes to any type of vaginal health, there have been studies into three probiotic strains: lactobacillus acidophilus, lactobacillus rhamnosus, and lactobacillus reuteri. They have been shown to help establish and maintain a healthy balance of microbes within the vagina. How? Science has shown that they actually change the chemistry of the vaginal surfaces, making it more difficult for harmful bacteria to grow. Some studies have even shown that lactobacillus acidophilus will actually attack harmful bacteria that grow within the vagina, kills it, and prevents it from spreading.
Most experts agree that the best probiotics for BV are supplements that you take orally. Other methods, including creams or inserts can actually make the problem worse and they are extremely messy.
Of course, along with taking probiotics for BV, you may want to reduce your sugar intake and eat a more balanced diet. This allows the probiotics to go where they need to go and do the work that will make you feel better.
What To Look For In A Probiotic For Bv
Vaginal health is important because it affects how you feel and look. When you feel good about yourself, youre more likely to feel confident and happy.
Your confidence and happiness will also rub off onto others around you. When you dont feel well, you might find yourself feeling down or even depressed.
BV, otherwise known as Bacterial Vaginosis, is a very common infection in women who are at childbearing age. BV can impact 1 in 3 women.
Although, a lot of women havent heard of BV before. We have put together this short little guide, so you can further understand what BV is and what you should look out for when buying probiotics.
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Probiotics For Digestive Health
Healthy gut bacteria feed on fiber and some other prebiotic foods, so experts recommend that people eat a diet rich in high-fiber foods such as fruits and vegetables.
To improve digestion, choose probiotics known to support gut health, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria species. The L. rhamnosus GG strain, in particular, has many protective factors that may benefit gut health, for example, inhibiting the growth of some salmonella bacteria.
Taking a probiotic supplement will not always benefit a persons digestive health and should not replace a healthy lifestyle. People should ensure they are:
- eating a healthy diet
support vaginal and digestive health. This product contains 1 billion CFU of L.acidophilus, L. rhamnosus, and L. plantarum.
The company claims that Probiotic Pearls may protect against UTIs.
This probiotic contains softgel capsules. They are free from gluten and sugar, and do not contain artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. However, this product is not suitable for vegetarians.
Which Probiotics Are Best For Bv
Given that BV is an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina, it would make sense that increasing levels of friendly bacteria by using probiotic supplements could be beneficial. But which are the best BV probiotics?
Scientists are well aware that different probiotics do different things. The strains to help with BV need to be able to survive transit through the entire length of the digestive tract, then migrate to, and colonise, the vagina.
There is extensive research looking into the efficacy of vaginal probiotics. It is understood that the Lactobacillus genus is the predominant genus of bacteria found in a healthy vagina. So, most studies on probiotics for vaginal health centre around the Lactobacillus species. In this section we look at the following Lactobacillus strains which have been researched for the support of BV:
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Causes Of Bacterial Vaginosis
It is not completely clear what causes the condition. It is thought that some lifestyle variables, such as frequent douching or the use of soaps and shower gels might alkalinize the vagina, allowing undesired strains of bacteria to grow.
Lactobacillus bacteria keep your vagina acidic, preventing dangerous bacteria from growing. When lactobacillus levels fall, more harmful bacteria invade and a number of issues can occur including bacterial vaginosis.
How Do You Prevent Bv In The Long Term
Taking a probiotic every day can help reduce your chances of getting a BV again. Yet there are some other things you can do as well. A low sugar diet, reducing your stress, is known to reduce the chances of a vaginal imbalance.
Alongside this, try to use mild and unscented bath products, as this will not disrupt your normal pH balance of your vagina. Thus, your vagina wont be affected by any strong chemicals that could be affecting it.
Finally, if you are having sex, then it should ideally be protected. This way, you will keep all the bad bacteria away from your vagina, that could possibly enter through unprotected sex.
Thus, there are a lot of things you can do, to help you prevent BV in the long term alongside taking your daily probiotic as well.
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How Long Will It Take Probiotics To Start Working
The answer to this question depends on the person and the condition being treated. Some people may see results within a few days or weeks. However, for others, it may take months of taking probiotics before they notice any changes. It is important to continue taking them as directed and to be patient.
When choosing a probiotic supplement, it is important to look for one that contains live and active cultures. It is also important to choose a product that has been tested for purity and safety. Probiotics for vaginal health should be taken as directed on the package.
How To Choose The Most Popular Womens Probiotic For Bacterial Vaginosis
The three most crucial criteria to consider are price, quality, and popularity.Price is an obvious factor to consider, as you want to ensure it is acceptable for your needs.Quality should also be examined because buying a low-quality goods will not help you achieve your main aim of obtaining the best product.Finally, while not as obvious as price or quality, popularity can be just as significant as both when it comes to attracting new customers.
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Symptoms Of Bacterial Vaginosis
Some symptoms of BV may seem similar to those of a yeast infection, such as a burning sensation when you urinate or strangely colored discharge that is thicker than normal. One distinguishing factor of bacterial vaginosis is that it often is accompanied by a fishy odor. This smell may become even more potent after sexual intercourse.
Do Probiotic Supplements Benefit Vaginal Health
Some scientists believe taking probiotics might help to restore a healthier balance of bacteria in the vagina. That works in theory and in some lab experiments.
But what works in the laboratory doesnât always work the same way in the human body. It may not be as simple as introducing healthy bacteria in the form of a pill or suppository.
So far, there’s little evidence to suggest that these supplements improve vaginal health. This may change as scientists learn more. But for now, antibiotic and antifungal medications are the only treatments known to be effective for vaginal bacterial and yeast infections.
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What Other Treatments Can I Use For Bv
BV is usually treated with antibiotics, but there are non-antibiotic treatments available too, such as BETAFEM® BV Gel. Designed to help restore your bodys natural vaginal flora and balance your pH levels, it can both treat and prevent recurrent BV, offering relief from unpleasant odours within 24 hours.
There are also things you can do to reduce your risk of getting BV. For example, avoid using scented toilet paper or sanitary towels, and clean your intimate area with soap-free washes. Steer clear of overly perfumed soaps, bath liquids and shower gels too, and dont use strong detergents to wash your underwear. Quitting smoking can also cut your risk of developing BV.
If you keep getting BV, your doctor should be able to help you identify what is triggering the condition.
* This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. You should consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of all medical conditions.
Yogurt And Other Natural Options
Some natural options may provide relief from a yeast infection, but medical experts agree there isnt sufficient evidence to prove if theyre effective treatment options. At this point, home remedies may be best for preventing new or recurring yeast infections:
- Practice good hygiene: Change out of sweaty or wet clothing or bathing suits as soon as possible.
- Wear cotton underwear: Cotton is breathable and absorbs moisture, which can help keep your vagina dry.
- Dont put foods into your vagina: Using apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, yogurt, avocado oil, or any other food in your vagina will likely cause more harm.
- Avoid scented products: Scented tampons, pads, bubble baths, and laundry detergents can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the vagina.
- Do not douche: The vagina is self-cleaning, so you never need to douche. Doing so can lead to a yeast infection or other vaginal infections.
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How Long Do Probiotics Take To Work For Bv
A review carried out at the Alfa Institute of Biomedical Sciences in Marousi, Greece highlighted trials which suggested that probiotic pessaries when used for 6 to 12 days, or probiotic tablets when taken orally for 2 months, cured BV and/or reduced recurrences of the condition. The study also found that using probiotics over these time periods resulted in an increase in Lactobacillus significantly more frequently than when placebos or no treatment were given. However, the review went on to point out that other trials have produced less positive findings.
Given the uncertainty surrounding how effective probiotics may be in treating BV, its impossible to give a definitive answer in terms of how long they may take to help relieve the infection.
Taking Probiotics For Bv
The majority of the probiotics we have mentioned above, can all be taken orally. Yet, you should always read the instructions, as some probiotics on the market can either be taken orally or they can be inserted into the vagina.
Yet both methods are known to be effective, as neither one is more effective than the other. It is really more up to personal preference which one you end up doing and what type of probiotics you have brought asks you to do.
If you decide to take it orally, then you need to make sure the strains of bacteria will be able to survive the intestines and make it all the way to the vagina.
As you can see, you need to be aware of what strains are in the probiotics that you are buying. Also, it will say on the packaging the best way to take the product as well. In this article, we have given you the best probiotics that you will be able to find that will help you combat BV.
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