Bacterial Vaginosis Treatment in London: Safe Options for Expecting Mothers

Pregnancy is an exciting and special time in a woman’s life, but it doesn’t come without its challenges. One health condition that many expecting mothers may encounter is bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV is a common vaginal infection caused by an imbalance in the normal bacteria that naturally live in the vagina. During pregnancy, hormonal changes make women more susceptible to BV, and if left untreated, it can lead to complications. Fortunately, there are safe and effective options for bacterial vaginosis treatment in London for expecting mothers. In this blog, we’ll talk about what BV is, why pregnant women are at higher risk, and the best bacterial vaginosis treatment in London.

What Is Bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis occurs when the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted. Typically, the vagina has a mix of “good” bacteria, like Lactobacillus, that help keep harmful bacteria in check. But when the number of good bacteria decreases, harmful bacteria such as Gardnerella vaginalis can multiply, leading to an infection.

Symptoms of BV

Common signs of bacterial vaginosis include:

• A thin, grayish-white discharge
• A strong, fishy odor, especially after sex
• Vaginal itching or irritation
• A burning sensation when urinating

In some cases, women may not experience any symptoms, which is why it’s important to get checked out, especially during pregnancy.

Why Are Pregnant Women More Prone to BV?

Pregnancy brings many hormonal changes, and some of these changes can make women more susceptible to bacterial infections like BV. Here are a few reasons why pregnant women are at higher risk for developing BV:

1. Hormonal Changes: The increased levels of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy can alter the pH of the vagina, making it more prone to bacterial overgrowth.
2. Immune System Changes: Pregnancy naturally suppresses the immune system, which helps protect the developing baby. However, this can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infections like BV.
3. Increased Vaginal Discharge: Pregnancy increases vaginal discharge, which can disrupt the balance of bacteria and raise the risk of infection.
4. Physical Changes: As the uterus grows, it can put pressure on the bladder and vagina, changing the way fluids flow and creating an environment where harmful bacteria thrive.

Risks of Untreated BV During Pregnancy

Though bacterial vaginosis is treatable, leaving it untreated during pregnancy can lead to complications. If you have BV while pregnant, you may face these risks:

1. Preterm Labor: Untreated BV has been linked to an increased risk of preterm labor. The infection can trigger inflammation that leads to early contractions.
2. Low Birth Weight: Babies born to mothers with untreated BV are more likely to be born underweight, which can result in health issues for the baby.
3. Miscarriage: Some studies suggest that untreated BV may increase the risk of miscarriage, especially in the early stages of pregnancy.
4. Increased Susceptibility to Other Infections: BV can make women more vulnerable to other infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which could further complicate pregnancy.
5. Postpartum Complications: After childbirth, untreated BV can lead to infections such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which could affect long-term reproductive health.

For these reasons, it’s important to seek prompt bacterial vaginosis treatment in London during pregnancy.

Safe Options for Bacterial Vaginosis Treatment in London

Luckily, bacterial vaginosis can be treated safely during pregnancy. If you’re pregnant and suspect you have BV, it’s important to consult with a private gynaecologist  who can guide you to the best treatment options available. Below are some of the safest and most effective treatments for BV in pregnancy:

1. Antibiotics Safe for Pregnancy

Antibiotics are the most common treatment for bacterial vaginosis, and certain antibiotics are considered safe to use during pregnancy. Doctors in London typically recommend the following:

• Metronidazole (Flagyl)

Metronidazole is one of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics for BV. It’s generally considered safe during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters. It’s available in oral tablet form or as a gel that’s applied directly to the vagina. While metronidazole is typically avoided in the first trimester unless absolutely necessary, it’s effective in treating BV in later stages of pregnancy.

• Clindamycin (Cleocin)

Clindamycin is another antibiotic that’s often prescribed for bacterial vaginosis. It’s safe for use during pregnancy and is commonly applied as a vaginal cream or suppository. Some women may experience mild irritation with the vaginal form, but it’s generally well-tolerated and works well to treat the infection.

Both of these antibiotics target the harmful bacteria causing the infection, helping to restore the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.

2. Probiotics for Vaginal Health

In addition to antibiotics, probiotics are often recommended as part of BV treatment. These supplements contain beneficial bacteria, like Lactobacillus, that can help restore the balance of bacteria in the vagina. Probiotics are available in pill form, but they can also be found in foods such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut.

Taking probiotics can help reduce the likelihood of recurrent BV after treatment. However, it’s important to speak to your healthcare provider before taking any new supplements during pregnancy to ensure that they are safe for you and your baby.

3. Vaginal pH Regulation

Maintaining a healthy vaginal pH is key in managing BV. London gynaecology clinics offer treatments that help restore the vagina’s natural acidity, which can help prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria. These pH-regulating treatments are often used in conjunction with antibiotics and can help keep BV from coming back.

4. Preventing Recurrent Thrush and BV

Pregnancy can make some women more prone to recurrent infections, such as thrush (yeast infections) and BV. If you’ve had BV in the past, it’s important to manage the risk of recurrence. To help prevent both recurrent BV and thrush, follow these simple steps:

• Wear breathable cotton underwear to help keep the vaginal area dry.
• Avoid douching, as it can disrupt the natural bacterial balance.
• Use mild, unscented soap and water for personal hygiene.
• Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to help your body stay healthy.

5. Regular Check-Ups and Monitoring

Once you’ve started BV treatment, your healthcare provider in London may want to monitor your progress to make sure the infection is cleared up completely. Regular check-ups are especially important during pregnancy to ensure that both you and your baby are doing well.

Final Thoughts

If you suspect that you have bacterial vaginosis, it’s crucial to seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent complications during pregnancy. Thankfully, bacterial vaginosis treatment in London offers safe and effective options for expecting mothers. Antibiotics like metronidazole and clindamycin are commonly prescribed and are safe to use during pregnancy. Additionally, probiotics, vaginal pH regulation, and lifestyle changes can support your treatment and help prevent recurrent BV or even recurrent thrush.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you’re experiencing symptoms of BV or have any concerns about your health during pregnancy. Timely treatment will help ensure a healthy pregnancy and a safe environment for both you and your baby.