Many women mistakenly diagnose bacterial vaginosis as yeast infection, so it is very important to see a doctor if you think you may have it. Delaying proper treatment can often lead to much more complicated conditions. The entire approach to home treatment for bacterial vaginosis is aimed at rebalancing the normal vaginal flora. If this can be achieved, then getting rid of bacterial vaginosis will be easy. Home treatment for wild-type bacterial vaginosis offers a safe, inexpensive, and effective alternative to repeat visits to a medical facility.
The home treatment regimen consists of natural vaginal supplements and suppositories. It is an ideal treatment as it strengthens the body and makes it more capable of fighting pathogens on its own. Prescription drugs can commonly destroy bad bacteria, but they also tend to kill all good bacteria. Good bacteria are necessary to keep the vaginal immune system healthy. It can result in the weakening of the entire system and cause recurring infections and sometimes years of fighting bacterial vaginosis. Natural cures for bacterial vaginosis have proven to be effective in most cases. These are some of the tried and tested home remedies for bacterial vaginosis.
The yogurt treatment uses Lactobacilli, a strain of bacteria that normally lives in the human small intestine and vagina. Lactobacillus acidophilus is also present in yogurt. It can help restore the acid balance in the vagina. Lactobacillus acidophilus can be taken by mouth or inserted directly into the vagina. Plain yogurt, which contains live acidophilus cultures, can also be eaten directly. Vaginal inserts, in the form of yogurt-soaked tampons, are another effective alternative, or you can try douching with a teaspoon of acidophilus and 2 cups of water.
A boric acid douche is an ideal alternative to acidify vaginal pH. However, some women are known to be sensitive to this shower.
A vinegar shower, made by mixing a tablespoon of vinegar per liter of warm water, is also just as effective.
A hydrogen peroxide shower treatment can be prepared by combining a quarter cup of water with 3% hydrogen peroxide first and then diluting it with two cups of water.
Tea tree oil is known to have antifungal properties that attack the “bad” bacteria that cause bacterial vaginosis. Tea tree oil suppositories can be inserted directly into the vagina for up to 6 weeks. However, care should be taken never to apply tea tree oil directly to the sensitive vaginal lining, as it can cause an allergic reaction.
Grapefruit Seed Extract Shower is prepared by combining one teaspoon of diluted grapefruit seed extract in two cups of water. Grapefruit seed extract should never be applied directly to the sensitive vaginal lining as it can cause an allergic reaction.
Using cold compresses can help provide some relief where there is swelling and itching. This can be done by placing a cold tea bag or cold washcloth on the affected area; it causes the blood vessels to constrict and makes the area less red and swollen.
Garlic is commonly called “nature’s antibiotic.” Garlic contains alliums, which is a very important compound that helps fight infection. Garlic capsule supplements containing 5,000 micrograms of alliums can be taken every day until symptoms disappear.
Neem is antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial. Although it can destroy harmful bacteria and viruses, it does not kill beneficial gut flora or cause adverse side effects. Taking neem bark extract powder regularly can help improve antibody production and the body’s cell-mediated immune response, and help fight infection.
One sure way to permanently eliminate bacterial vaginosis is to successfully reimplant the beneficial bacteria in the vaginal canal and gastrointestinal tract. This could take several months depending on the severity of the condition. But once the infection is under control, it is best to switch to a healthier lifestyle maintenance program to keep the body healthy and the intestines moving regularly to flush toxins out of the body. It is highly recommended to drink at least 4 ounces of 100% cranberry juice every day, drink milk with live acidophilus cultures, and eat yogurt with live acidophilus cultures.