Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a condition caused by an imbalance in the levels of certain types of bacteria in your vagina, often resulting in uncomfortable symptoms like vaginal discharge and odor. Your vagina is home to a variety of healthy bacteria, and when these bacteria become unbalanced, you may become susceptible to BV. This condition is frequently caused by Gardnerella vaginalis, the most common bacteria found in your vagina.
Understanding BV and its relationship with hormonal changes is crucial, especially since these fluctuations can impact the overall acidity and bacterial balance in your vagina. You might be wondering, "Will my period flush out BV?" Unfortunately, menstruation does not typically eliminate BV. In fact, hormonal changes during your menstrual cycle can sometimes exacerbate the symptoms of BV, making the experience even more uncomfortable.
Can BV Cause Irregular Periods?
While BV itself doesn't directly cause irregular periods, the stress and discomfort it brings can indirectly affect your menstrual cycle. The impact of BV on your periods can vary, but it’s essential to maintain good menstrual hygiene during this time to avoid aggravating symptoms.
BV and menstrual health are deeply intertwined. Menstrual changes due to BV can include increased irritation and discomfort. To manage these symptoms effectively, treating BV-related menstrual issues should be a priority. Ensuring you follow a routine of BV and menstrual hygiene can significantly alleviate these symptoms.
Understanding and Managing BV During Your Menstrual Cycle
If you notice any signs or symptoms of bacterial vaginosis (BV) during your period, it's perfectly natural to feel a bit concerned. But don’t worry, your body has an amazing ability to restore balance on its own. Sometimes, just waiting a day or two can allow your naturally occurring lactobacilli—the "good bacteria" in your vagina—to correct the problem.
However, if after some time you still feel “off,” it’s important to reach out to your doctor. Whether you’re on your period or not, getting BV is nothing to be ashamed of. In fact, the hormonal changes that occur before, during, and after your period can play a significant role in disrupting your vaginal bacterial balance.
Remember, open communication with your healthcare provider is key. They might suggest waiting until after your period to treat the BV, as menstrual blood can sometimes interfere with treatments. But having that conversation with your doctor ensures you're taking the right steps for your health and comfort.
Your health is paramount, and it is essential to listen to your body and seek advice when needed. Your doctor is there to help you navigate these changes with care, compassion, and expertise. So, take a deep breath, and know that you’re doing the right thing by taking charge of your intimate health.
Treating BV-Related Menstrual Issues
Bacterial vaginosis can be a nuisance, but in general, it is often easily treatable and can occasionally go away on its own.
The standard course of treatment for BV is a prescription for either metronidazole (Flagyl) or clindamycin (Cleocin) antibiotics, and these may be taken orally or administered vaginally. In addition to the medication that's prescribed for BV, many medical practitioners recommend switching to menstrual pads. The reason for this is that many antibiotic treatments for BV are in the form of vaginal suppositories, which don’t work as well when using tampons. Unfortunately, tampons can absorb the medicine, which makes treatment less successful. You should also make sure you are changing your pad on a regular basis.
Because BV is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina, your natural hormonal changes as well as the high pH of your menstrual blood can trigger an infection. But once your hormones have adjusted after your period, it may resolve your BV symptoms as well. That being said, if you’re still noticing symptoms, are itchy, are in pain, or if your periods are accompanied by a strong, fishy odor, it’s best to get checked out by your doctor.
Can BV Delay Your Period?
Bacterial infections like BV generally do not affect your hormones directly and therefore shouldn't disrupt your menstrual cycle. However, BV can sometimes cause symptoms like spotting or bleeding, which might make you think you’re getting your period. This bleeding is simply a symptom of the infection, not an actual menstrual period. Additionally, infections can lead to uterine contractions, which can also cause spotting and bleeding. This can be confusing, making you believe you're starting your period when, in fact, you're dealing with a vaginal infection.
Although BV doesn't directly cause irregular cycles, it can disrupt the overall bacterial balance in your vagina, leading to discomfort and other symptoms.
It is crucial to remember that leaving BV untreated can lead to more serious conditions, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Paying attention to your monthly hormonal cycle helps you understand what is normal for your body and allows you to track any changes that may be occurring.
Taking note of these changes and consulting with your healthcare provider when something feels off is essential. By doing so, you’re not only caring for your immediate health but also preventing potential complications down the road. Always prioritize your well-being and seek medical advice when needed, ensuring you maintain a healthy and balanced intimate life.
How to Prevent Recurrent BV
Bacterial vaginosis is considered “recurrent” if it has occurred more than four months in a row following your period. When it comes to prevention, preliminary research shows that your preferred method of dealing with menstrual blood may affect your recurrence of BV.
There is some evidence to suggest that the use of tampons may increase your risk of getting BV since the insertion of tampons may affect the overall bacterial balance within the vagina. For this reason, it might be a good idea to transition to the use of pads or menstrual cups. Of course, make sure you’re changing your pad and emptying your menstrual cup regularly if you decide to go that direction.
Another preventative measure that may help your vagina stay balanced throughout your cycle is to use our gynecologist-recommended Restore Moisturizing Vaginal Gel. Restore promotes healthy vaginal flora by mimicking the body’s natural pH levels, salt balance, and lactic acid produced by healthy lactobacilli. Even better is to combine Restore with BiopHresh Vaginal Probiotic Supplement for a powerful, proactive, daily feminine hygiene routine. BiopHresh is friendly to your microbiome and has been shown in clinical studies to lower vaginal pH, creating a mildly acidic condition and promoting a healthy microbial environment.
Practicing Good Hygiene on Your Period
Practicing good hygiene during your period is crucial for maintaining overall vaginal health, especially when managing conditions like BV. By choosing the right products, such as pads or menstrual cups, and avoiding those that disrupt your vaginal flora, you can help prevent infections and discomfort. Staying hydrated, using gentle, pH-balanced products, and consulting with your healthcare provider when necessary, all contribute to a healthier and more comfortable menstrual experience.
If you experience recurrent BV, it might be beneficial to rethink your period hygiene. Preliminary research shows that using pads or menstrual cups can prevent BV, as they don’t affect the overall bacterial balance the way tampons do. Furthermore, some research suggests that IUDs, a common form of birth control, may alter the vaginal microbiome, making you more susceptible to BV.
Overall, if you’ve been worried that BV can affect your period, remember that it’s likely the hormonal imbalance around your period causing the BV, not the BV affecting your period. Practicing good hygiene throughout your menstrual cycle and staying informed about your options can help you manage your health effectively. Speak to a doctor if you have any further concerns.
Taking care of your body with thoughtful, informed practices is an empowering step towards overall well-being. Embrace this aspect of self-care with confidence and compassion, knowing you are doing what’s best for your health. Your commitment to understanding and caring for your body is a testament to your strength and resilience.
