Bacterial Vaginosis
What Does It Mean?
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) occurs when there is an imbalance in the vaginal microbiome, leading to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria such as Gardnerella vaginalis, Mycoplasma hominis, and Atopobium vaginae, while beneficial lactobacilli decline. This imbalance can cause inflammation, increased vaginal discharge, and a characteristic odor. BV is not a true infection but a state of dysbiosis that requires microbiome restoration.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes:
• Dysbiosis & Loss of Lactobacillus – A shift in vaginal pH (>4.5) allows pathogenic bacteria to thrive.
• Hormonal Imbalances – Estrogen supports healthy vaginal flora; imbalances can contribute to dysbiosis.
• Frequent Antibiotic Use – Reduces beneficial bacteria, making recurrence more likely.
• Douching & Chemical Irritants – Disrupts the vaginal microbiome and mucosal barrier.
• Unprotected Intercourse & Seminal Fluid Exposure – Alters vaginal pH and microbial composition.
• Gut-Vaginal Axis Dysfunction – Imbalances in gut bacteria can contribute to recurrent BV.
Signs & Symptoms:
• Thin, white, or gray vaginal discharge
• Strong, fishy odor, especially after intercourse
• Vaginal irritation or burning (less common than in yeast infections)
• Increased vaginal pH (>4.5)
• Presence of clue cells on wet mount microscopy
How Do We Treat It?
Functional Medicine Approach:
The goal is to restore the vaginal microbiome, reduce inflammation, and support immune function.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Advanced Vita-Biotic R | Provides probiotics to restore vaginal and gut microbiome | 1 capsule with food, daily |
| Endura | Supports hydration and electrolyte balance | 1 scoop with or without food in cold water, three times daily |
| Vita Defense | Enhances immune response and supports microbiome balance | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| V-Inflamma | Reduces systemic and vaginal inflammation | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita-Candid | Supports microbial balance and prevents fungal overgrowth | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, daily |
| Vita-Glutathione | Supports detoxification and immune function | 1 capsule with or without food, daily |
| Vita-Digestyzyme | Aids digestion and gut microbiome balance | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, daily |
| N-Acetyl Cysteine | Supports detoxification and reduces bacterial biofilms | 3 capsules without food, daily |
| V-Pax | Comprehensive immune and antioxidant support | 2 capsules with food, daily |
| Vita B Methyl | Supports methylation and cellular repair | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| CoQ-10 300 mg | Enhances mitochondrial function and cellular energy production | 2 capsules with food, daily |
| Vita DIM | Supports hormonal balance and estrogen metabolism | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Zinc | Essential for immune function and vaginal tissue repair | 1 capsule with food, daily |
| Magnesium | Supports nervous system function and muscle relaxation | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| V-Collagen | Supports connective tissue and mucosal integrity | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| SBI Powder | Supports gut and immune function, aids in reducing inflammation | 1 scoop of powder in cold water without food, daily |
| Gluta Protect | Antioxidant protection and immune modulation | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| D-Mannose Powder | Prevents bacterial adhesion in the urinary and vaginal tract | 1 tsp of powder with food, twice daily |
| Vita Microbe | Supports healthy vaginal and gut flora | 3 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Vita Buffered C Powder | Antioxidant and immune-enhancing effects | ¼ scoop of powder with food, twice daily |
| Vita-Biotic | Provides probiotics to balance the vaginal microbiome | 3 capsules without food, daily |
| Vita-Flux | Supports nitric oxide production and circulation | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
• Increase Fermented Foods – Yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables help restore lactobacilli.
• Avoid Douching & Harsh Soaps – These can disrupt the vaginal microbiome.
• Use pH-Balanced Feminine Hygiene Products – Helps maintain healthy vaginal acidity.
• Probiotic Suppositories (if necessary) – Direct application of beneficial bacteria can accelerate microbiome recovery.
• Optimize Gut Health – A healthy gut microbiome contributes to a balanced vaginal microbiome.
• Safe Sexual Practices – Use condoms to prevent pH alterations and bacterial exposure.