Bacterial vaginosis or BV is a common condition among women where there is an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina. While this is more common with women who are of childbearing age, all women are at risk. BV occurs when there is an overgrowth of the bad bacteria found in the vagina which can be caused by a number of factors. Regardless of the causes, knowing ways to get rid of BV without antibiotics through natural remedies will be better.

How to Get Rid of BV Without Antibiotics.

1. Apple cider vinegar bath

The acidity in apple cider vinegar can help increase the acidity in the vagina. This increase in acidity makes it more difficult for the bad bacteria that cause BV to survive. Soaking in a bath for 20 minutes daily that include two cups of apple cider vinegar can help treat BV naturally.

2. Yogurt

The Lactobacillus found in yogurt can help balance the pH levels in the vagina. This is one of the most common ways to naturally treat BV and this can be done in a few different ways. You can eat two cups of yogurt a day to reduce the bad bacteria growth and bring the pH balance back to normal levels. You can also apply yogurt directly to the area either using a cotton pad three times a day for half an hour. Or, dip a tampon in yogurt and leave it in for two hours twice a day.

3. Using tea tree oil

The antibacterial and antifungal components in tea tree oil will not only help eliminate the excess bad bacteria that cause BV but will also help eliminate the smell that can be caused by BV. How to get rid of BV without antibiotics with this remedy? Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with warm water and rinse the vagina with this solution every day for up to four weeks. You can also combine a few drops of tea tree oil with three cups of white vinegar and add this to a warm bath. It may take up to two or more months of soaking in the bath for about half an hour every other day.

4. Garlic cloves

With natural antibiotic properties as well as antifungal components, garlic can be a great natural alternative to clear up BV. You can consume the garlic either in raw form or as a capsule daily, but consult your doctor first. You can also crush four cloves of garlic and apply this directly to the area, leave it on for 20 minutes before rinsing with warm water. Repeat this remedy daily for a few months. Another option is to wrap a clove of garlic in gauze and insert it into the vagina. Leave it in for up to 30 minutes once a day for up to a week.

5. Apply cold compresses

BV can cause discomfort from itching to inflammation. To help reduce these discomforts, apply cold compress to the area for a few a minute. Be sure to wrap the ice or compress in a clean piece of cloth before applying it and leave on for a minute, then leave off for a minute and repeat. Do this a few times throughout the day as needed.

6. Boric Acid

Boric acid is an antifungal and antiseptic that can reduce the irritation caused by BV. This can be done by taking a gel capsule or inserting the capsule into the vagina before bed. In the morning, rinse the vagina with warm water and repeat this process twice a week.

7. Chamomile

How to get rid of BV without antibiotics can be done with chamomile. Chamomile can help reduce swelling and the burning sensation caused by BV. Simply make a cup of chamomile tea, allowing the tea bag to soak for at least a minute. Remove the tea bag and refrigerate for at least ten minutes, then insert the tea bag into the vagina. Remove after a few minutes and repeat the process up to two times a day.

8. Turmeric

Turmeric has a variety of anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties that can help treat BV. Incorporate turmeric into your cooking when you can or make a warm turmeric milk mixture to consume once a day.

9. Cranberry juice

Cranberry juice is a common natural remedy for yeast infection, and is also effective to help treat BV. Drinking a glass of cranberry juice a day can help reduce the bad bacteria found in the vagina.

10. Coconut oil

Coconut oil contains properties that can help kill off the germs and bad bacteria that cause BV. You can easily rub the coconut oil on the area three times a day or apply it to the vagina directly. Use a tampon dipped in organic fresh coconut oil and leave it in place for a few hours. Remove and rinse the area with warm water. Repeat this process daily for a couple of days.

11. Vegetable juice

Making your own vegetable juice to consume daily can be an easy way to help treat BV naturally. Combine leafy green vegetables with garlic, ginger, parsley and even turmeric can help reduce the symptoms of BV.

12. Boost your immune system

How to get rid of BV without antibiotics can be easier when your immune system is strong and healthy. Increase your vitamin C, A, zinc, iron, and selenium intake. This can be done through supplement or by consuming vitamin rich foods like oranges, sweet potatoes, carrots, garlic, apples, and broccoli.

13. Proper hygiene

One preventive measure you can take to reduce your risk of developing BV is through proper hygiene. Avoid tight fitting underwear and be sure to change your underwear daily. Keep out things like soap, bubble bath, toilet paper, and perfume. Always wipe from front to back and avoid cleansing the vagina too often.

If you are taking antibiotics to treat BV understand, it can take up to a week for symptoms to subside but during this time you can also use any of the mentioned suggestions above. There are, however, additional symptoms you want to be aware that could indicate other complications. Speak to your doctor if you are experiencing these symptoms:

• Fever with vaginal discharge.
• Vaginal discharge is different or new compared to discharge you have experience in the past.
• There is a risk of an STD either from recently having sex with a new partner or with multiple partners.