Patient's question:
Detailed medical condition and consultation purpose: My baby is five months old and currently breastfeeding. I had an internal examination and a discharge test, which were all normal except for a cleanliness level of 3. The doctor said it was bacterial vaginosis and prescribed a hospital-made preparation called "Baidu Wash." The ingredients are baidu, shachengzi, camphor, and kushen. May I use it? Is it safe? What should I pay attention to during treatment? What other medications can I use?Doctor's answer:
Dietary taboos for bacterial vaginosis patients include:(1) Avoid spicy foods
Spicy foods (such as chili peppers, ginger, scallions, garlic, etc.) should be consumed in moderation, as excessive intake can generate internal heat, leading to the accumulation of heat and toxicity in the viscera. This may result in symptoms such as swollen gums, mouth ulcers, dark yellow urine, burning sensation in the rectum, and itching in the front and back areas, worsening the condition.
(2) Avoid seafood that promotes inflammation
Fishy and pungent seafood, such as Mandarin fish, yellow croaker, hairtail, black fish, shrimp, and crabs, can exacerbate damp-heat conditions. Consuming these foods may intensify external genital itching and hinder the resolution of inflammation, so they should be avoided.
(3) Avoid greasy and sweet foods
Greasy foods (such as lard, fatty pork, butter, beef tallow, and mutton tallow) and high-sugar foods (such as chocolate, candies, sweet pastries, and cream cakes) can increase dampness and heat, leading to increased vaginal discharge and affecting treatment efficacy.
(4) Avoid alcohol and smoking
Smoking can worsen urethritis because nicotine weakens the binding of oxygen to arterial blood. Alcohol promotes damp-heat, so it should be strictly avoided. Similarly, alcoholic beverages like fermented rice wine and medicinal wines are not suitable for consumption.
(5) Pay attention to dietary nutrition
It is advisable to eat more fresh vegetables and fruits to maintain smooth bowel movements; drink plenty of water; and avoid concurrent urinary tract infections.