Bacterial Vaginosis Could Put Pregnancy At Risk If Left Untreated

Date: Apr-18-2013Women in the UK are more likely to know about intimate beauty treatments than they are
about serious health issues that could make them six times more likely to miscarry or give
birth prematurely.

Research published this week by Balance Activ reveals women are more aware of bikini
waxing (67%) and vajazzles (48%) than they are about intimate health, with nearly two
thirds of women questioned (61%) unaware or unsure of health problems that could lead to
fertility problems, miscarriage and increased risk of STI's.

BV (Bacterial Vaginosis) affects one in three women* and because very few know about it
the symptoms are often confused with other infections. It is twice as prevalent as thrush
and if left untreated during pregnancy the condition can lead to serious implications:
Pregnant women with BV are six times more likely to miscarry and twice as
     likely to give birth prematurely than other women
It's thought BV is responsible for one in three of all premature births in the UK
BV can put women at risk of contracting STIs such as Gonorrhoea and Chlamydia
It seems intimate women's health is the last taboo as over a third of women questioned
(38%) admit they would only feel comfortable getting health advice from online forums
while nearly a fifth (19%) are too embarrassed to speak with a GP.

The research, carried out to coincide with National BV Day (Tuesday 16th April),
reveals 63% of women feel angry that more information on intimate health conditions is not
made available. Health experts are now calling for more awareness of intimate health and
the serious side effects that can be the result of untreated conditions.

As part of National BV Day women can access videos featuring Dr Dawn Harper explaining
the key symptoms of BV, and how to treat them quickly and easily at home using lactic acid
pessaries or gel. The videos advise that BV is not a sexually transmitted disease nor
linked to poor hygiene, but is in fact a condition caused by changes in the vagina's pH
balance. Triggers can include the use of scented soaps and bubble bath.

BV - the little known condition that affects 1 in 3 women

Courtesy: Medical News Today Note: Any medical information available in this news section is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a health care professional.