You might benefit from this visit if:

• You're exhibiting indications of bacterial vaginosis, such as unusual discharge or a fishy smell.

• In the last year, you've experienced fewer than four yeast infections.

BV and vaginal yeast infections fall under vulvovaginitis, the umbrella term for inflammation of the vagina or vulva. BV ranks as the most common form of vaginitis, followed by vaginal yeast infections and trichomoniasis, also known as trich.

While both BV and vaginal yeast infections share symptoms like itchiness and discomfort, BV is characterized by a fishy odor, whereas yeast discharge typically lacks odor. BV discharge tends to be thin, grayish, or foamy, while yeast infection discharge is typically thick, white, or similar to cottage cheese.

If you suspect you have BV or a mixed infection of BV and yeast, you're in the right place for treatment. For vaginal yeast infections alone, you can initiate a visit from Optum Health Clinic's Vaginal yeast infection treatment page. However, if you suspect trichomoniasis, an STI, it's essential to consult a trusted healthcare provider for proper lab testing.

About 30% of instances of BV resolve on their own, although oral or vaginal antibiotics can reduce symptoms in a matter of days as compared to weeks or months.

You may need to use the prescription BV therapy for two to seven days, depending on the drug and type. Physicians will not now provide BV medicine through Optum Health Clinic on a single dosage. Studies reveal that these medications work less effective than multi-day BV therapies.

Vaginal dysbiosis, or an excess of bacterial variety in the vaginal microbiome, is the cause of bacterial vaginosis.

Lactobacillus bacteria predominate in a healthy vaginal environment, and sometimes just these bacteria. The lactic acid produced by lactobacilli is sufficient to maintain vaginal pH levels below 4.5. pH levels rise and lactic acid generation decreases with the number of bacterial species colonising the vagina. Additionally, some of the antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory qualities of the vaginal microbiome are lost.

Even though it's not usually classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), BV frequently spreads through sexual contact. Numerous sexual practices, such as unprotected intercourse or a recent partner switch, might introduce the harmful germs that cause bacterial vaginosis (BV).

By using inadequate genital hygiene, BV can spread. The following BV preventive techniques are advised by clinicians to reduce the chance of bacterial transmission:

• Steer clear of vaginal douches.

· After using the bathroom, wipe front to back.

· Regularly change your underwear

• After having intercourse, urinate

Ultimately, high-fat diets, being overweight or obese, and cigarette smoking have all been linked to an increased risk of BV.

Probiotics may help stop bacterial vaginosis from returning after first therapy, according to some research. Probiotics called Lactobacillus may aid your body in reestablishing a healthy vaginal microbiome, whereas antibiotics target "bad" bacteria directly. Probiotics can be obtained naturally by eating foods like yogurt or by taking pills.

In addition to increasing certain health risks, vaginal bacterial infections (BVBIs) frequently result in problems with quality of life. Individuals with a lower amount of "good" bacteria in their vaginal microbiome may be more susceptible to various genital tract illnesses. An increased risk of contracting STIs such as HIV, human papillomavirus (HPV), or herpes, for instance, is associated with bacterial vaginosis. Additionally, they can be more susceptible to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Preterm labor and other pregnancy problems are more likely when a woman has BV during her pregnancy. If you are a pregnant woman with BV symptoms, you can receive treatment at Optum Clinic.

You should discuss your options with a healthcare professional like an OB-GYN) if you're pregnant but don't have any BV symptoms and want to reduce your risk.

At this time, Optum Clinic does not accept health insurance for visits. Although we cannot promise it, you can make a claim to your insurance company for compensation. If you typically pay for your prescription drugs with insurance, you can do the same with those that are prescribed by Optum Clinic.

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