Maintaining Vaginal Health: Lifestyle Tips to Prevent Bacterial Vaginosis

While it may not be possible to completely eliminate the risk of bacterial vaginosis (BV), there are several strategies that may help reduce your risk of developing or recurring BV.

For more information about bacterial vaginosis and its treatment, you can talk to the best GYN in Brownsville at Doral Health and Wellness – Women’s Health Center.

Here are some of the tips that can help you prevent bacterial vaginosis. Keep in mind that each responses can vary depending on different factors, and these recommendations should be discussed with a medical provider:

  • Practice Safe Sex — Be consistent on using of condoms correctly during sexual activity as it can help reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can contribute to BV.
  • Limit Sexual Partners — Have a mutually monogamous sexual relationship with a partner who has been tested for STIs to lower the risk of BV.
  • Avoid Douching — Douching can affect the natural balance of bacteria on your vagina. Avoiding douching to help maintain a healthy vaginal environment.
  • Choose Mild Soaps — Use mild and fragrance-free soaps to clean your genital area. Harsh or scented products may disrupt the natural pH balance of your vagina.
  • Limit Bubble Baths — Reduce the frequency of your bubble baths, as certain products can irritate your genital area.
  • Stay Hydrated — Drink lots of water to help maintain overall health, including your vaginal health.
  • Avoid Smoking — Quit smoking as it can be beneficial, smoking has been associated with an increased risk of BV.
  • Use Cotton Underwear — Choose breathable fabrics like cotton for your underwear. Avoid tight-fitting pants, as they can restrict airflow.
  • Practice Good Hygiene — Wipe from front to back after using the toilet to avoid spread bacteria from your rectum to your vagina.
  • Probiotics
    • Supplements — Probiotics containing Lactobacillus strains can help maintain a healthy balance of vaginal bacteria. These can be taken as supplements.
    • Foods — Include probiotic-rich foods in your diet, such as yogurt with live cultures, kefir, and fermented foods.
  • Regular Gynecological Checkups — Regular visits to your medical provider or gynecologist for your gynecological checkups can help monitor and address any changes in your vaginal health.
  • Treatment of BV — If you experience symptoms of BV, seek medical attention immediately for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
  • Treatment of Partner — If BV is recurrent, your medical provider may recommend treating your sexual partner(s) to prevent reinfection.
  • Avoid Overuse of Antibiotics — Only use antibiotics as prescribed by your medical provider and avoid self-prescribing or overusing these type of medications.

It is important to note that while these strategies may contribute to your healthy vaginal environment, they do not guarantee the prevention of bacterial vaginosis. If you have concerns about your vaginal health or experience symptoms, consult with your medical provider for personalized guidance and appropriate care.

At Doral Health and Wellness – Women’s Health Center, we have the best GYN doctor in East New York, and we provide women with quality health care services, such as bacterial vaginosis treatment. Our specialists aim to deliver the highest quality of healthcare.To schedule an appointment, you can visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11212 or call us at 1-347-384-5690. You can also visit our website at http://www.gynecologistbrooklyn.com/.