Hey love

Let’s talk about something that way too many people experience, but not enough people understand. BV. Yep, Bacterial Vaginosis. It’s the uninvited guest that shows up when your body’s balance is off and doesn’t know when to leave.

The good news? Once you understand what it is, how it works, and how to deal with it, you can stop stressing (and stop Googling at 2am in panic).

So, What Exactly Is BV?

Bacterial Vaginosis happens when the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted.
Your body has both “good” and “bad” bacteria. When the good ones, known as lactobacilli, get outnumbered by the bad ones, called anaerobes, BV shows up.
It’s one of the most common vaginal conditions. While it’s not officially labeled an STI,
recent research suggests it may be sexually transmitted or at least sexually associated. So yes,
partners may need to be part of the treatment plan too.

What Are the Symptoms?

Not everyone gets symptoms, but when they do, they often include:
• A thin, grey or white discharge
• A strong fishy smell, especially after sex
• Itching or burning
• A general “something’s off” feeling
And sometimes… it’s silent. Which makes it easy to miss and easy to ignore.

Quick PSA: BV Has Nothing to Do with Being Dirty
Seriously. This isn’t about hygiene.

In fact, over-washing or using heavily scented products can actually make it worse.
Douching? Absolutely not.
Harsh soaps? No thank you.
The vagina is self-cleaning. What it needs is balance, not bubble bath.

How Do You Get BV?

There’s no single cause, but some common triggers include:
• New sexual partners or multiple partners
• Unprotected sex (semen can disrupt pH levels)
• Douching or using scented products
• Tight or non-breathable underwear
• Hormonal changes or medication
To be clear, you can get BV without any sexual activity at all.

Can It Go Away On Its Own?

Sometimes it clears on its own. But more often, especially if it’s recurring, it needs treatment.
Usually, that’s a round of antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Left untreated, BV can increase the risk of STIs and cause complications for those trying to
conceive. If you’re unsure, get checked.

How to Prevent the Recurrence

BV loves a comeback. Here’s how to keep it in check:
• Use unscented, breathable period products
• Avoid douching and perfumed washes
• Gently wash the vulva only, no internal cleaning
• After sex, rinse with warm water and pee to help flush things out
• Wear cotton underwear and go commando when you can
• Take care of your gut health. Balance starts from within
When to Seek Medical Advice
• First-time symptoms
• Recurrent BV
• If you’re pregnant
• If OTC remedies aren’t helping
• If you’re just unsure. Trust your gut

There’s no shame in checking in with a professional. You deserve answers.

Why This Conversation Matters

BV is common. And yet, so many people feel embarrassed, ashamed, or confused about it.
But here’s the truth. Having BV doesn’t make you dirty. Or irresponsible. Or “less than.”
It just means your body needs a little extra care.

How Sheba Helps

At Sheba Feminine, we create products that support real-life bodies.
Our organic, biodegradable period care range is gentle, breathable, and designed to work with
your body, not against it.
Pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and intimate wipes that are kind to your skin, and kinder to
the planet.

Because caring for your cycle should never compromise your comfort or the Earth. In Summary
BV happens. It’s manageable. It’s nothing to be ashamed of.

Whether you’re going through it for the first time or you’ve been dealing with it for years,
you’re not alone. We’ve got you.
Let’s keep the conversation going.
With love,

The Sheba Feminine Team