Bacteria vaginosis is a vaginal infection that can cause undesirable symptoms such as a fishy odor from the vagina, a discharge that appears either white or gray, pain during urination, and vaginal itching. It is important to note that approximately 50 percent of women who have bacteria vaginosis do have any outward signs of the infection. And because nearly half of those inflicted with this bacteria infection do not have any symptoms, it is prudent to get an annual pap smear exam to know for sure whether or not they have an infection.
Who is at risk for acquiring bacteria vaginosis? The short answer is: any woman, especially those within their childbearing years. Bacteria vaginosis occurs usually when there is an imbalance in the vaginal bacteria. An increase in harmful vaginal bacteria is all it can take to cause bacteria vaginosis.
The medical community has found that certain lifestyle conduct can increase the risk of getting bacteria vaginosis. Multiple sex partners, lesbian sexual activities, and vaginal douching are some of the most common risks. Using protection during sexual activities is advised to reduce the likelihood of acquiring bacteria vaginosis.
A recent study from the Royal Women's Hospital in Victoria, Australia uncovered some interesting news about bacteria vaginosis. Researchers of the study found a connection between oral sex and an increase in harmful vaginal bacteria. Of the 44 female participants, they discovered that 23 had acquired harmful bacteria in their vaginas. All the participants were virgins, so how did 23 of them get bacteria vaginosis? It turns out that these 23 women had either engaged in oral sexual activity or in petting practices. While the study is admittedly a small sample of the population, it does reinforce the necessity of safe sexual practices.
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