# data[].attributes.body
Claire Burroughs

# data[].attributes.body
Bacterial vaginosis is a noncontagious sexually transmitted infection that is caused by bacteria in the vagina. This goes on to create an imbalance in the natural pH balance of the vagina. This raises the pH level causing it to rise above the normal vaginal level which is usually 3.8-4.5. BV can occur in women of all ages, but particularly effects women who are in their "reproductive years" and sexually active. Although are no specfic known causes of BV as of now, there are ways to avoid it.

# data[].attributes.body
Gardnerella vaginalis is the name of the pathogen that leads to BV. This pathogen typically plays a part in the vaginal flora. Gardnerella vaginalis is a species of bacteria that is known for having a hand in creating BV, however alone it is not a condition. This pathogen comes about when there is a change of bacteria types in the vagina. Gardnerella vaginalis is the main culprit of BV symptoms including: raised vaginal pH, discharge that is thin, and a fishy odor.

# data[].attributes.body
There are many known symptoms of BV. These symptoms usually include: changes in discharge, fishy odor, cloudy urine, painful urination or pain after sex, irritated or sensitivity on and around the vagina. It is said most women that experience BV, have little to no symptoms at all. This can be dangerous and cause long-term complications if not treated within a reasonable amount of time.

# data[].attributes.body
The treatment of BV involves various different things and avoidants to completely make sure the infection has time and resources significant to the process of healing. Normally for medications, doctors prescribe by mouth or ointment style antibotics such as clindamycin and metronidazole. Getting over-the-counter medications and vaginal gels are also recommended to expel the amount of bacteria built up. Doctors also recommend suppositories and antifungal tablets. There are also a few things to steer clear of until the infection is gone. These things include cleaning the infected area with soap and shaving. It is also said avoiding sexual intercourse and sexual activity for a while can be effective.

# data[].attributes.body
While medical treatment is necessary when women get BV, sometimes home remedies can help ease symptoms. There is a pad technique where there is a mixture of tea tree oil, witch hazel, and water that is supposed to act as an antiseptic. To aid the fishy odor, apple cider vinegar baths are used to get rid of toxins and get the vagina's acidic pH balance back to normal. A baking soda bath is also used to lessen symptoms.

# data[].attributes.body
BV can be life-threatening for newborn babies and new mothers. Pregnant women with BV have an increased risk for infections. Having BV while pregnant can cause premature birth, extremely low birth weights, risk of birth defects, and in extreme cases untreated, miscarriage or death.

# data[].attributes.body
Being that many women with BV are asymptomatic, it is sometimes difficult to notice the infection and how long it has been in a woman's system. However, bacterial vaginosis can easily become life-threatening if gone untreated for a long period of time. Some longterm effects include running the risk to obtain HIV, obtaining more STI's, the infection of BV can become recurrent, and acquiring pelvic inflammatory disease.

# data[].attributes.body
Preventing bacterial vaginosis is a very easy and maintable way to remain having a healthy vagina. In sexual activity protect yourself by using condoms. In everyday life eating clean and taking probiotics can prevent infection. Avoiding douching and when on the menstrual cycle using clean tampons and pads can help. Limiting the number of sexual partners one has greatly reduces the chance of obtaining BV. Maintaining a well balanced vagina on a regular basis can also be a significant part in preventing BV.

# data[].attributes.body
With bacterial vaginosis, there are certain things that can put you at more risk for getting the infection. Studies prove that women of African american and Mexican ethnicities are more prone to get BV than other ethnicities. Studies also prove those who are overweight, smoke, and abuse drugs were more likely to obtain BV. Women who have had multiple sexual partners also have a higher risk. Women who use scented, dyed, soaps or laundry detergent with perfumes, and chemicals are at risk.

# data[].attributes.body
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bacterial-vaginosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20352279

- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/3963-bacterial-vaginosis

- https://draxe.com/health/bacterial-vaginosis-symptoms/