Why Do I Keep Getting Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)?

😩 The BV Struggle Is Too Real

If you feel like you’re stuck in a never-ending cycle of bacterial vaginosis (BV), you’re not alone. It’s frustrating, uncomfortable, and let’s be honest—kind of embarrassing. But here’s the deal: BV is incredibly common and notoriously persistent. So if you’ve treated it once (or five times) and it keeps coming back, it’s time to dig into why—and what you can do about it.

🔍 What Even Is BV?

Bacterial vaginosis is a vaginal infection caused by an imbalance in your natural bacteria. When the good bacteria (Lactobacillus) get outnumbered by other types, it throws your pH off and, boom—BV symptoms show up.

That might include:

• A strong, fishy odor (especially after sex)
  
• Thin, grayish discharge
  
• Mild irritation or itching
  
• Burning when you pee

Unlike yeast infections, BV isn’t caused by fungus—and antifungal meds won’t help. You’ll usually need antibiotics like Metronidazole or Clindamycin.

🔁 Why Does It Keep Coming Back?

• Your partner’s bacteria: Even though BV isn’t technically an STI, sex can absolutely throw your vaginal flora out of whack—especially unprotected sex or new partners.
  
• Not finishing antibiotics: Didn’t complete the full course of meds? That lingering bacteria may not be fully gone.
  
• Douching or scented soaps: These disrupt your vaginal balance (and are a no-go in general).
  
• Smoking: Tobacco use has been linked to recurrent BV.
  
• Hormonal shifts: Menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and birth control can all alter your vaginal pH.
  
• Other vaginal infections: Yeast infections or UTIs can sometimes lead to treatment overlap or imbalance.

💊 What You Can Do to Prevent It

• Use condoms: Especially with new or multiple partners.
  
• Try boric acid suppositories: These can help maintain a healthy pH (but don’t use them if you’re pregnant!).
  
• Daily probiotic: Look for vaginal health blends with Lactobacillus strains.
  
• No douching, ever. Seriously, your vagina cleans itself.
  
• Wear breathable cotton underwear: Let your vulva breathe.
  
• Avoid tight pants + thongs: Moisture + friction = a BV-friendly zone.

🍷 Bonus Tip: Skip Alcohol During Antibiotics

If you’re prescribed Metronidazole for BV, do not drink alcohol during your treatment and for 24–48 hours after. It can cause intense nausea, cramping, and vomiting. Trust us—it’s not worth the glass of wine.

💬 Final Thoughts: BV Doesn’t Define You

If your BV keeps coming back, it’s not your fault. It’s a common, stubborn condition—but there *are* ways to manage it. Talk to your healthcare provider about your options, especially if you’ve done multiple rounds of antibiotics. Consider lifestyle tweaks, probiotics, and smarter prevention strategies.

You deserve to feel fresh, confident, and in control of your vaginal health. BV might be persistent—but so are you. 💪

📎 Quick Links & Downloads

• BV Treatment Tracker
  
• Symptom Log Template
  
• Vaginal Health Checklist