Patient Education
Practice Hours
Monday through Thursday
8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Friday
8:00 am to 12:00 pm
Dahlonega Office
706-864-3400
Dawsonville Office
706-216-2345
Testimonials
Thank you for all your excellent support and prenatal care during my pregnancy and delivery of my baby. As a military family, we have experienced many different gynecological and OB treatments both at military and civilian services. Your practice is by far the best care we have ever experienced. It was a great surprise to find such excellent and compassionate staff for a high-risk pregnancy in such a small community. - Meriah P |
| Bacterial Vaginosis |
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Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common cause of vaginal discharge in women. It can cause bothersome symptoms, and also increases the risk of acquiring serious sexually transmitted infections, such as HIV. It may be difficult to know if discharge is caused by BV or other common vaginal infections, thus a visit with a healthcare provider is recommended in most cases. BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS CAUSES — BV occurs when there is a change in the number and types of bacteria in the vagina. Lactobacilli are a type of bacteria that are normally found in the vagina. In women with BV, the number of lactobacilli is reduced. The reason for these changes is unknown. RISK FACTORS — Risk factors for BV include multiple or new sexual partners, douching, and cigarette smoking. Although sexual activity can increase the risk of developing BV, BV can occur in women who have never had vaginal intercourse. BV is not thought to be a sexually transmitted infection.
BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS — Approximately 50 to 75 percent of women with BV have no symptoms. Those with symptoms often note an unpleasant, "fishy smelling" vaginal discharge that is more noticeable after sexual intercourse. Vaginal discharge that is off-white and thin may also be present. Occasionally, BV causes an abnormal cervical discharge and easy bleeding (such as after sexual intercourse). If you have concerns about excessive or foul-smelling vaginal discharge, abnormal bleeding, or vulvar irritation, see a healthcare provider. Self-treatment with over-the-counter products (eg, yeast creams, deodorants) is NOT recommended.
BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS DIAGNOSIS — The diagnosis of BV is based upon a physical examination and laboratory testing. The physical examination usually includes a pelvic examination, which allows the healthcare provider to observe and test vaginal secretions. BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS COMPLICATIONS — BV itself is not harmful, although it has been associated with some health problems.
BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS TREATMENT — Treatment of BV is usually recommended. There are two prescription medications used for the treatment of BV: metronidazole and clindamycin. Both medications can be taken in pill form by mouth, or with a gel or cream that is inserted inside the vagina. Metronidazole vaginal gel is one of the most effective treatments; it is applied inside the vagina at bedtime for five days. Metronidazole can also be taken in pill form. Clindamycin is a cream that is inserted into the vagina at bedtime for seven days. A one-day vaginal clindamycin cream and three day vaginal ovule are also available. Clindamycin can also be taken by mouth in pill form. It is not necessary to treat the sexual partner of a woman with BV. Treating the sexual partner does not improve the woman's symptoms or decrease the risk of the infection coming back. RELAPS AND RECURRENT INFECTION — Approximately 30 percent of women who initially improve after treatment have a recurrence of BV symptoms within three months, and more than 50 percent have a recurrence of symptoms within 12 months. It is not clear why this occurs. Relapse can be treated with a prolonged course of oral or vaginal metronidazole or clindamycin for 10 to 14 days. If you've had more than three episodes of BV in the past 12 months, you may benefit from a preventive treatment. BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS PREVENTION — The best way to prevent BV is not known. However, a few basic recommendations can be made.
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