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Is a biofilm responsible for recurrent vaginosis in me?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have been suffering from bacterial vaginosis for around seven years now and I have tried absolutely everything, nothing seems to be working. I have been prescribed multiple antibiotics and they only work whilst I am taking them and after that, the infection comes right back. After doing some research I came across the term biofilms and truly believe I may have a biofilm in my vaginal wall preventing me from curing this horrible infection. I understand antibiotics and other methods are unlikely to cure BV completely if there is an underlying issue such as a biofilm. I am also aware of the fact that biofilm can make bacterial vaginosis reoccur which is what keeps happening to me. It comes right back after taking anything for it. If this is the case what do you advise to get rid of this? I am willing to try anything.

Answered by Dr. Uzma Arqam

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Uzma Arqam is a dedicated Obstetrician and Gynecologist with expertise in prenatal care, high-risk pregnancy management, infertility treatment, menstrual disorders, and minimally invasive gynecological procedures. She provides comprehensive women’s healthcare with a focus on safety, compassion, and personalized treatment. Dr. Arqam is committed to supporting women’s health at every stage of life through evidence-based practices and patient-centered care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Biofilms are sticking of bacteria or infection that remains in the wall of the vagina and cause recurrence of infection. Vagina has its specific pH and it is maintained by bacteria lactobacilli that are normal flora of the vagina. Disbalance of pH occurring by this bacteria has less proportion in comparison to other infective organisms. You have taken treatment many times but this infection recurs due to effect on your normal flora by medications recurrently. My advice to you is to have some natural approach to the problem and less exposure to the medications recurrently to normal flora as it is affecting normal flora of the vagina. Have sitz baths (sit in warm water to relief irritation). Have soft comfortable undergarments, strict hygiene. Use only clean water locally. No products use of any kind. Try to use condoms for some time to reduce transmission of sexually transmitted disease.

Answered by Dr. Uzma Arqam
Medically reviewed by Dr. K. Shobana
Published At July 29, 2018
Reviewed At January 23, 2024

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Uzma Arqam is a dedicated Obstetrician and Gynecologist with expertise in prenatal care, high-risk pregnancy management, infertility treatment, menstrual disorders, and minimally invasive gynecological procedures. She provides comprehensive women’s healthcare with a focus on safety, compassion, and personalized treatment. Dr. Arqam is committed to supporting women’s health at every stage of life through evidence-based practices and patient-centered care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. K. Shobana is a Dental Surgeon specializing in oral health and dental care. She is skilled in preventive dentistry and provides oral hygiene education. She can do restorative treatments such as fillings and crowns. She can handle periodontal problems such as gum diseases and periodontitis. She can do root canal treatment.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Companion

Bacterial Vaginosis Biofilm Companion

How it works

Recurrent bacterial vaginosis (BV) can be frustrating. This section helps you understand what BV is, why it keeps coming back, and how biofilms might play a role.

1

Bacterial
Vaginosis

2

Biofilms
Recurrence

3

Vaginal
pH

4

Why
Antibiotics

5

Natural
Hygiene

6

Lifestyle
Prevention

This information is based on general medical guidance. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice; consult a qualified clinician.

Always consult a doctor before taking medication; self-medication carries serious health risks. Take exact prescribed doses, and never start, change, or stop treatment without medical supervision.

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Uzma Arqam is a dedicated Obstetrician and Gynecologist with expertise in prenatal care, high-risk pregnancy management, infertility treatment, menstrual disorders, and minimally invasive gynecological procedures. She provides comprehensive women’s healthcare with a focus on safety, compassion, and personalized treatment. Dr. Arqam is committed to supporting women’s health at every stage of life through evidence-based practices and patient-centered care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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