What to do if bacterial vaginosis recurs

Recurrent bacterial vaginosis can be treated by keeping the vulva clean, avoiding excessive vaginal washing, standardizing the use of antibiotics, adjusting the vaginal microecological balance, and enhancing immunity. Recurrent bacterial vaginosis is usually related to vaginal microecological imbalance, improper use of antibiotics, low immunity, poor hygiene habits, changes in hormone levels and other factors.

1. Keep the vulva clean

Wash your vulva daily with warm water and avoid using alkaline soaps or lotions. Choose breathable cotton underwear and change them daily. Keep your vulva dry after cleaning to avoid a moist environment that can breed bacteria. Wipe from front to back after defecation to prevent intestinal bacteria from contaminating the vagina. Change sanitary napkins frequently during menstruation to reduce the chance of bacterial growth.

2. Avoid excessive vaginal washing

The vagina has a self-cleaning function, and frequent washing will destroy the normal flora balance. Avoid using douches or lotions that contain fragrance. Just wash your vulva with water before and after sex. Dry your perineum promptly after swimming or bathing. If you must use a care product, choose a mild cleanser with a pH close to the vagina.

3. Standardize the use of antibiotics

Medications such as metronidazole vaginal effervescent tablets, clindamycin phosphate vaginal cream, and tinidazole suppositories must be used as directed by your doctor. Complete the entire course of medication, and do not stop the medication without permission even if the symptoms disappear. Avoid long-term or frequent use of broad-spectrum antibiotics. Do not drink alcohol during medication to prevent disulfiram-like reactions. After treatment, a review is required to confirm whether the pathogen has been eliminated.

4. Adjust microecological balance

You can use probiotic preparations such as live lactobacilli capsules for vaginal use as directed by your doctor. Eat an appropriate amount of probiotic-containing foods such as yogurt and kimchi on a daily basis. Avoid long-term use of drugs that affect flora such as immunosuppressants. Control blood sugar levels. Diabetes can easily lead to changes in the vaginal environment. Reduce high-sugar diet. Excessive sugar can promote the growth of harmful bacteria.

5. Enhance immunity

Ensure adequate sleep, 7-8 hours a day, to help repair your immune system. Eat a balanced diet and consume more fruits and high-quality protein rich in vitamin C. Moderate exercise such as brisk walking and yoga can improve resistance. Manage stress levels, chronic stress can weaken immune function. Stop smoking and limit alcohol consumption. Tobacco and alcohol will reduce local immunity.

Patients with bacterial vaginosis should avoid wearing tight pants or synthetic underwear and choose loose and breathable clothing. Reduce spicy food in your diet and drink more water to promote metabolism. Avoid sexual intercourse or use condoms during treatment to prevent cross-infection. Regular gynecological exams can help detect early signs of recurrence. If abnormal secretions increase, odor or itching worsens, you should seek medical advice promptly for a secretion examination and select sensitive antibiotics based on the drug sensitivity results. Maintaining a regular schedule and a good attitude are equally important to preventing relapse.