I couldn't believe it when I read your posts--I have had constant problems with BV ever since my IUD was inserted two years ago, and it has been an unending source of horror for me.

I think you are absolutely on the right track with regard to the antibiotics being a cause rather than a cure--I was prescribed a round of "preventative" antibiotics to protect against the precursors for PID when my IUD was inserted and was immediately hit with:

A) the first yeast infection I have ever had
B) a never-ending case of BV

Since that time, I rarely go more than a few days without having symptoms of BV or a yeast infection, and let me reiterate--I had NEVER had either of these issues before the IUD was inserted. Never. Now they are my constant companions.

It is totally miserable! I have done virtually the same as you--gone through endless regimens of Flagyl, alternating with yeast infection regimens (my gyn's idea, since I had both). Nothing has worked. One Gyn suggested that the bacteria might be "hiding" in the IUD string, but I was skeptical. After months and months of paying money for useless treatments, I finally just gave up. I have a specially formulated Ph-balanced wash that I use (it has lactic acid in it, and I bought it in Europe), and it helps to alleviate some of the symptoms, especially the odor and burning. But like you, I have found no cure, only a moderately useful treatment.

I have noticed the same thing that you have--the problem is definitely cyclical, so it was interesting to read your insights as to why it is so much worse some parts of the month. I have also noticed that semen REALLY makes the odor a lot worse. In my case, I think that some of the odor I'm noticing is actually the semen itself (I discovered the "unique" smell of old semen when my dog found a used condom somewhere and dropped it in the living room--the smell was awful, and very similar to what I had noticed and attributed to BV). Since I often notice the strongest odor the day after intercourse (but not directly after intercourse), this theory seems to hold up a bit.

I wish I had some useful miracle to share! I am doing a colon cleanse as well and changing my diet, and I will certainly keep you posted if anything works. Most of all, though, I just wanted you to know that you're not the only one. Honestly, sometimes I feel mortified by this problem, and it is so frustrating not to have any workable solution. Never in my life have I been self-conscious about sex, but now I rarely enjoy oral sex because I am so preoccupied about the possible odor. It is really a terrible problem to have. Thanks so much for sharing--I feel much less alone. Here's hoping we can find a lasting cure.

PS---There is a cleanse for the lungs. I've never tried it, but here is the link....

http://ehow.com/how_12674_pineapple-fast-lungs.html