The vagina of every female contains bacteria. It normally does not cause a problem, but if something happens to upset the balance and it grows out of control, bacterial vaginosis occurs. This is the medical term for a vaginal bacterial infection. 

The main cause is the overgrowth of the Gardnerella bacteria. Patients on certain antibiotics can experience vaginosis as a secondary infection. The prescribing doctor should explain this to the patient. 

Some of the symptoms are:

• A strong fishy odor in the vaginal area could be present.
• Light bleeding from the vagina could occur aside from the menstrual cycle.
• Pain during urination could be felt. 
• Itching or irritation feeling in the vaginal area could be experienced. 
• A grayish white discharge could be present, especially after intercourse. 

If any abdominal pain is experienced, it is a symptom that the infection has spread to the uterus and other parts of the body. A doctor's immediate care is needed. 

If the infection is still in the vagina, there are remedies the patient can use. 

• For patients taking antibiotics, eat plenty of yoghurt (any flavor) to keep internal bacterial balances intact. 
• Drink plenty of water to help flush the urinary tract and help keep the vaginal flora in balance.
• Apply plain yoghurt to the vagina directly. 
• If using tampons, coat with yoghurt before insertion.
• Apply a moist, cool teabag to the vagina.
• Drink plenty of high Vitamin C juices to help the body combat the bacteria.
• Cranberry juice, well- known for urinary tract infections, can help with vaginosis.
• Garlic is a time- tested antibacterial agent. Take it internally or apply to the vagina.
• Take 12 tsp. of Calendula herb and add to boiling water. Steep, and allow to cool. Use in a douche to help reduce swelling
• Use a boric acid douche to combat the bacteria. 
• Wash two or three handfuls of Margosa leaves well and allow to dry. Add to a small saucepan and heat for two or three minutes. Allow to cool and grind into a fine powder. Use an empty sugar or salt container to apply twice a day for relief.
• Before washing underwear, soak first in very hot water for twenty minutes to kill the bacteria. Wash in the hottest water the garment will allow, and add bleach if the garment will allow it. 
• Keep the anal area cleaned well to prevent intestinal bacteria from spreading into the vagina. 

Home remedies may very well work to cure the vaginosis. They could save a trip to the doctor's office with copays, insurance forms, prescription costs and more. If they do not, seek medical care.