Treat vaginal infections due to bacterial vaginosis in 3 easy ways

Bacterial vaginosis is a vaginal infection caused by bacteria. This infection often causes a foul-smelling, vaginal discharge and pain when urinating. The main treatment for bacterial vaginosis is prescription antibiotics. But you can also try some of the simple ways below to treat vaginal infections at home.

Various natural ways to treat vaginal infections are bacterial vaginosis

1. Yogurt

Bacterial vaginosis is caused by an invasion of bad bacteria that destroys the pH balance of the vagina. Yogurt is a high source of probiotics, bacteria that are good for health.

The good bacteria can produce lactic acid to maintain the ideal vaginal pH so that it remains acidic. Hydrogen peroxide is also produced by good bacteria to inhibit the development of bacteria that cause vaginal infections.

Most importantly, probiotics can also increase the body's immune response. A good immune system can help the body more effectively fight infections and maintain overall body health. Just consume one glass of yogurt every day to help treat vaginal infections.

Apart from yogurt, you can also find probiotics in tempeh, kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir, pickled cucumbers, and other fermented foods. According to a 2014 study, taking probiotics every day can help treat vaginal infections while preventing their recurrence.

2. Garlic

Have garlic at home? If so, you can use it to treat bacterial infections due to bacterial vaginosis. Garlic is known to contain the active compound allicin, which has antiviral, antimicrobial and antifungal properties that can kill various organisms that can cause disease. These include the bad bacteria that cause bacterial vaginosis.

3.Tea tree oil (tea tree oil)

Tea tree oil or better known as tea tree oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties which are supposed to treat vaginal infections. Before actually applying this oil to your vaginal skin, first test a little on the skin of your arm. Watch for an allergic reaction, such as itching or burning sensations. If there is no reaction within 24-48 hours, this means it is safe for vaginal use.

To do this, dilute 5-10 drops of tea tree oil with a solvent oil (coconut oil, almond oil, or olive oil; choose one that doesn't make you allergic). Then apply it on the lips of the vagina. You can also drip tea tree oil onto the surface of a pad or pantyliner. Wear it during the activity, and then take it off within an hour.

Instead of treating, it is better to prevent it by maintaining vaginal hygiene

It is also important to maintain vaginal hygiene so that you avoid bacterial infections. Although the vagina actually has an automatic system for cleaning itself, you still have to do some things to keep the environment in the vagina balanced.

Some things you can do to keep your vagina clean are:

Clean the vagina regularly with warm water.
Clean the vagina from front to back so that germs in the anus do not spread to the vaginal area.
Keep the vaginal area dry. We recommend that you choose underwear from cotton that is easy to absorb sweat and avoid wearing tight pants or skirts. Wipe the area around the vagina with a soft towel after showering or after going to the toilet.
Avoid cleaning the vagina by douching because it can disrupt the balance of natural bacteria in the vagina. Also avoid using scented wipes, scented soaps, or vaginal deodorants.
Change pads regularly when you menstruate.
Lubricate the vagina well before sexual intercourse to avoid irritation.