Women’s Health Services of Maryland
BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS

Bacterial Vaginosis Treatment in Baltimore, MD

Bacterial Vaginosis is a mild infection of the vagina caused by bacteria affecting the female reproductive organs. These infections are not only uncomfortable but can affect a woman's fertility if left untreated.  If you suspect you are infected or are suffering from a bacterial vaginosis. Schedule an appointment with Women’s Health and Cosmetic Services of Maryland. Our Glen Burnie office practice offers flexible scheduling, even for new patients. We serve the residents of Baltimore, Annapolis and the surrounding Maryland communities.

What is Bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis is an inflammation of the vagina walls that results from bacteria overgrowth. The vagina contains a strain of bacteria that are not harmful when controlled. However, when these bacteria get out of control, they can cause inflammation. Bacterial vaginosis affects women of all ages, and most women suffer from this condition at one point in their lives. 

What Causes Bacterial Vaginosis?

Factors that increase your risk of bacterial vaginosis;
  • Lack of lactobacilli bacteria. Lactobacilli bacteria in your vagina helps keep the levels of harmful bacteria low. If you naturally lack these bacteria, you are more likely to develop bacterial vaginosis.
  • Douching is rising and cleaning out your vagina with a cleansing agent. This disrupts the balance of good bacteria in the vagina and can lead to bacterial vaginosis. Your vagina is self-cleansing thus no need for douching.
  • Multiple sex partners. Although the exact link is not known, women who engage in unprotected sex with numerous partners are at a higher risk of suffering from this infection.
  • Depending on the dosage and frequency of consumption, smoking cigarettes has been strongly associated with contraction and recurrence of bacterial vaginosis. Women who smoke are more likely to suffer bacterial vaginosis compared to their counterparts.

How Much Does Bacterial Vaginosis Treatment Cost?

Costs will vary based on the specific treatment needed and the individual needs of the patient. All costs, as well as any possible financing options, will be discussed prior to treatment during your personal consultation at the Women’s Health and Cosmetic Services of Maryland.

How is Bacterial Vaginosis Diagnosed?

In most cases, the signs of bacterial vaginosis do not manifest until the condition becomes severe. Sometimes the symptoms resemble those of other sexually transmitted infections.

However, it is essential to look out for green or gray vaginal with a fishy smell since it is the most common symptom of this condition. Also, you may feel a burning sensation when urinating and itching. Severe bacterial vaginosis can result in the following complications:
  • Sexually transmitted infections; If you are suffering from bacterial vaginosis, you are more susceptible to other sexually transmitted diseases like chlamydia, herpes, and HIV. Also, bacterial vaginosis increases the risk of you transmitting HIV to your partner.
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease; Bacterial vaginosis can cause PID, which increases your risk of infertility and other reproductive complications.
  • Preterm birth; If you contract bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy, you are more likely to give birth to a preterm and most likely low birth weight baby.
  •  It is crucial to use mild soaps and unscented tampons to protect yourself from bacterial vaginosis infection or recurrence. Also, you should avoid having multiple sexual partners and douching. If you have been exposed to bacterial vaginosis, it is crucial to seek medical help for screening and treatment before your condition gets severe.
Our doctors diagnose bacterial vaginosis by asking about the symptoms, doing a pelvic exam, and taking a sample of the vaginal discharge. The sample can be tested to find out if you have bacterial vaginosis.
If you need treatment for a bacterial vaginosis, please contact Women’s Health and Cosmetic Services of Maryland.

What Type of Bacterial Vaginosis Treatment is Offered at Women’s Health and Cosmetic Services of Maryland?

Our doctors usually prescribe an antibiotic to treat bacterial vaginosis. They come as pills you swallow or as a cream or capsules (called ovules) that you put in your vagina. If you are pregnant, you will need to take pills.

Bacterial vaginosis usually clears up in 2 or 3 days with antibiotics, but treatment goes on for 7 days. Do not stop using your medicine just because your symptoms are better. Be sure to take the full course of antibiotics.

Antibiotics usually work well and have few side effects. But taking them can lead to a vaginal yeast infection. A yeast infection can cause itching, redness, and a lumpy, white discharge. If you have these symptoms, talk to your doctor about what to do.
If you reside in or around Baltimore, Annapolis and the Washington, DC, area and suffer from bacterial vaginosis, schedule a consultation with the specialists at Women’s Health and Cosmetic Services of Maryland. We will work with you to discover the root of your infection and will continue to work together to help you find relief. Contact us today!
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