Bacterial vaginosis and pregnancy
Pregnancy is a period of changes and expectations. Our bodily functions focus on nursing the new life inside us, and prepare us for giving birth, breastfeeding and childcare. Even though it can be enjoyable, it is far from a worry-free period.
Fast changes, including changes in the levels of our hormones, can lead to various discomforts and pain. As well as causing problems for us, different illnesses and infections can have an impact on our pregnancy, on our baby’s development, or childbirth. For example, bacterial vaginosis in pregnancy is linked to some more serious consequences, and should therefore be treated as soon as it is diagnosed.
What is Bacterial Vaginosis?
Bacterial Vaginosis is one of the most common vaginal discomforts. It is caused by the disruption of microbial balance in the vagina, and can have mild to severe symptoms such as white or grey watery discharge, unpleasant fishy smell, irritation and pain in the vaginal area.
Even though these symptoms are unpleasant, they are not life-threatening, and in most cases can be easily treated with antibiotics or a natural product that would restore the balance of the vaginal flora. However, Bacterial Vaginosis can have more severe consequences during pregnancy, including the risk of premature birth. For this reason, pregnant women should immediately contact a healthcare professional if they suspect that they might have Bacterial Vaginosis.
“Bacterial vaginosis in pregnancy is linked to some more serious consequences, and should therefore be treated as soon as it is diagnosed”
How to treat Bacterial Vaginosis in pregnancy?
The use of medication in pregnancy is very restricted and should always be done in consultation with your doctor or midwife. Sometimes, medicines will not be used due to their potential risks for the baby, but most often they will be avoided for the simple lack of proof that the risk does not exist.
Bacterial Vaginosis can be treated with antibiotics, such as metronidazol, which is often avoided during pregnancy. The alternative is to use natural products, which restore the pH of the vagina, and allow the good bacteria to reinstate the balance of the flora in the vaginal environment. Some of these products can be used during pregnancy, but because every woman and every pregnancy is different, the therapy should be discussed with your doctor or midwife.
