Dear Jacqui:
I am really confused. I have not had any sexual activity for at least six months but I noticed some discharge again. Last time this happened my doctor said I had bacterial vaginosis. Is it possible to get this vaginal infection repeatedly even without having sex?
Marla

Dear Marla:
Yes, it is. Bacterial Vaginosis is not necessarily transmitted through sexual relations. But it is more frequent in women who are sexually active.

Did you know that the third largest reason why why women visit a doctor is for vaginal infections and irritations. Gynecologists agree that over 30% of these problems are caused by the use of inappropriate products such as douches, scented soaps and body washes, deodorant sprays or high detergent bubble baths that interfere with the natural pH in the vaginal area. It could be the cause of your condition. To be safe, use unscented, dye free, pH balanced products only.

Stress is another culprit. It can inhibit our general immune system from functioning optimally which is why infections, including vaginal infections occur much more frequently during times of high stress. Sometimes a recurrent vaginal infection, such as bacterial vaginosis, is symptomatic of a different health condition that is affecting the body such as diabetes or HIV.

Be kind to yourself. Get a good check-up and take a little time to ask yourself what's really going on in your life. Possibly the answer to your problem is psychological, not physiological.

Jacqui

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