Because the cause of bacterial vaginosis is still unknown, prevention is not clearly understood. What is known however is that certain behaviors or actions are strongly connected to BV. For instance, having sex with multiple partners or someone new puts women at greater risk. However, there are women who aren’t sexually active who still get bacterial vaginosis. But because we have some understanding as what can lead to BV, we can take steps towards lowering the risk of it happening.

Preventing BV is about keeping the bacteria in the vagina balanced. The following are some examples of how to prevent bacterial vaginosis.

As mentioned, sex has shown to play a huge rule in the onset of BV. Therefore, practicing abstinence is a good place to start. Not only will you prevent bacterial vaginosis, but avoid sexual transmitted diseases and other infections. If you do have sex, then only do it with one partner.

While there is some debate, most agree that vaginal douching increases the risk of bacterial vaginosis. The reason is because douching can push bacteria into the uterus and fallopian tubes, which could lead to other health complications. Douching also reduces the good bacteria that fights against the infection.

Also, wipe forward to back while using the bathroom and wash your vagina and anus daily. Get a pelvic exam regularly, and get STI tests as well.

While taking a bath, avoid adding shampoos, perfumed bubble bath, scented soaps, antiseptics, and bath oils. Don’t use powerful detergents when washing underwear.

Other tips to prevent bacterial vaginosis include wearing cotton panties instead of synthetic, wearing thigh highs and not pantyhose (especially in the summer), dry off well after bathing, and not wearing tight pants.

While bacterial vaginosis can occur for any number of reasons, following the steps above will go along way toward prevention.

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