IUD and BV: Tracing the Relationship and Risk
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is a common issue that many women face.
According to WHO, the prevalence of BV around the globe is 23 to 29 percent.
Claims suggest that the use of IUDs can increase the risk of Bacterial Vaginosis.
If this is true, it can be a major drawback of this long-term contraceptive.
This article reveals the relationship between IUD and BV to explore the substantial risk that IUD users may have.
Can IUD cause BV
IUDs are a long-term birth control option that is relatively safe, but they are not free from side effects.
One of the risks it presents is Bacterial Vaginosis or BV.
It is the overgrowth of harmful bacteria common in women of reproductive age.
This vaginal infection occurs when the balance of good and bad bacteria in the vagina is disrupted.
A study by Tessa Madden found that the use of an IUD presents a bigger risk of getting Bacterial Vaginosis.
Out of all the participants, the IUD users had the highest BV prevalence, which is 37 percent.
The other contraceptive users, like those using Combined Oral Contraceptives and ring, had a 19.3 percent incidence.
This study further explained why IUD users might have a higher risk of BV.
The first reason is the presence of IUD strings that increase the anaerobic bacteria in the uterus.
This further worsens in copper IUDs as it can cause heavy menstrual bleeding for a long time.
A 2017 study also found that the users of copper IUDs observed an increase in BV prevalence from 27 percent to 49 percent within 180 days.
Although no studies particularly focus on the hormonal options, like Mirena IUD and BV, the risk still remains for all IUD users.
Complications
Bacterial Vaginosis not only causes symptoms like vaginal burning, itching, or foul-smelling discharge but also some serious complications.
If your IUD caused BV, removing it may be enough, as BV can go away sometimes without treatment.
However, it is best to seek treatment to avoid issues discussed ahead.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
It is known that sexually active females, especially those with multiple sex partners, are at a higher risk of BV.
The problem does not end here, as BV can also further increase the risk of STDs like Chlamydia, HIV, and Gonorrhea.
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As BV increases the risk of getting STDs, these transmitted bacteria can spread to the female reproductive parts.
This infection of the womb, fallopian tubes, or ovaries is known as PID.
There is less evidence suggesting that BV alone can also cause PID.
Complications after gynecological surgery
BV increases the risk of infection after certain surgeries related to the female reproductive system.
These may include Cesarean sections, abortion, and surgery of the uterus or cervix.
What to do if an IUD causes BV
You must contact your doctor immediately if you suspect BV.
A doctor may perform a vaginal smear or wet mount, where a sample taken from the vagina is checked under the microscope.
Alongside, a pH or odor test can also be conducted to confirm the presence of excessive harmful bacteria.
When BV is confirmed, it is usually treated by antibiotics like Metronidazole (tablet) or Clindamycin (cream) in case a woman has developed symptoms.
If the IUD has caused BV, a medical professional may remove it to prevent further issues.
Considering another birth control option is the right choice to prevent unwanted pregnancies.
On an individual level, you can take certain steps to ensure female hygiene and maintain healthy vaginal flora.
Some of them are:
- Avoid bar soaps and bubble baths as they are alkaline in nature and disrupt the pH balance
- Wear loose-fitting underwear
- Avoid douching
- Avoid talc, perfume and deodorants
- Change underwear, tampons, and pads regularly
- Clean the vulva after sex
- Use barriers like condoms to avoid STDs and related bacterial overgrowth
Conclusion
Bacterial Vaginosis is more prevalent among the IUD users.
It can be due to the excessive menstrual bleeding and increased bacteria from the strings.
BV is also related to the risk of PID, Sexually Transmitted Diseases, and infection after surgeries.
In case of having BV with an IUD, removing it will be ideal to avoid further issues.
When symptoms develop, antibiotics like Metronidazole and Clindamycin can offer relief.
Alongside, you can take care of your vaginal flora balance by wearing loose underwear, maintaining hygiene, and avoiding scented products.
Taking your intimate health seriously and taking adequate action for any discomfort can help to tackle issues like BV with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is BV more common with IUDs?
BV is more commonly observed in women using IUDs when compared to other birth control methods like COC, patch, or ring. A study found BV prevalence among IUD users to be 37 percent, in contrast with other options that have an incidence of 19.3 percent.
Does BV go away after IUD removal?
If BV was caused by an IUD, removing it may be enough as it does not always require treatment. However, BV can recur. It can also pose a risk of infections after surgery of female reproductive organs, PID, and Sexually Transmitted Diseases. So, you must consult a doctor to know if you need further treatment.
Can my IUD cause BV?
IUDs can increase the risk of BV. The prevalence of BV was reported at 37 percent in a study, while the other contraceptives had a 19.3 percent rate. The risk of BV further worsens in the case of copper IUD as it causes heavy menstrual bleeding.
What happens if an IUD causes BV?
If an IUD causes BV, but there are no symptoms, it mostly goes away without treatment. However, when symptoms like abnormal discharge or odor develop, it can cause infections after surgeries like abortions or C-sections. It can also increase the risk of acquiring STDs or PID.
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