Bacterial vaginosis is a female medical condition caused by an overgrowth of the bacteria that normally occur within the vagina. Symptoms of bacterial vaginosis include abnormal vaginal discharge, irritation and a fish-like odor. Though the cause of this condition is unknown, there are a number of activities that increase a woman's risk of developing bacterial vaginosis.
New or Multiple Sexual Partners
In a study published in the "Sexually Transmitted Infections" journal in 2004, Dr. S. Smart and colleagues found that women who had three or more male sexual partners or at least one female sexual partner within the previous 12 months were at a significantly increased risk of developing bacterial vaginosis. New or multiple sexual partners can cause a disruption in the growth of normal, healthy bacteria within your vagina. If this occurs, you are at an increased risk of developing vaginal infections, such as bacterial vaginosis.
Douching
Douching is a process in which the vagina is cleaned out with water or a water mixture containing iodine, vinegar or baking soda. Approximately 20 to 40 percent of women between the ages of 15 and 44 in the United Stated douche on a regular basis, reports the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. A woman may douche because she believes that cleansing the vagina can help her avoid becoming pregnant or developing a sexually transmitted infection. In reality, numerous studies have demonstrated that women who douche on a regular basis develop health problems more often than women who do not douche. Douching can disrupt the normal acidic level of the vagina that regulates the growth of healthy bacteria. When this happens, overgrowth of vaginal bacteria can occur, leading to the development of bacterial vaginosis.
Having Sex Without a Condom
Women who do not use a condom during sexual intercourse are at an increased risk of developing bacterial vaginosis. A condom prevents your partner's sperm from coming in contact with the internal tissue of the vagina. Sperm within the vagina can cause vaginal irritation and may disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in your body. If this occurs, you can develop bacterial vaginosis.
Using an Intrauterine Device
Women who use an intrauterine device are at an increased risk of developing bacterial vaginosis. An intrauterine device (IUD) is a method of birth control that is inserted into your cervix by a medical professional to help prevent pregnancy. During the insertion process, bacteria can be accidentally implanted into your vagina or cervix with the IUD. This can irritate the cervix and vaginal tissues, which can disrupt the healthy balance of bacteria within your vagina.
Smoking
Though researchers do not know why, smoking can increase a woman's risk of developing bacterial vaginosis. Speak with your doctor to determine the best way to help you quit smoking.
References
- Beth Israel Deconess Medical Center: Bacterial Vaginosis--Risk Factors
- "Sexually Transmitted Infection"; Social and Sexual Risk Factors for Bacterial Vaginosis; Dr. S. Smart, et. al.; 2004
- Merck Manual for Health Professionals: Bacterial Vaginosis
