Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is a condition characterized by an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the vagina. This infection often causes a fishy-smelling vaginal discharge, and sometimes causes other symptoms, such as itching and burning. A healthcare provider must examine the vagina for signs of bacterial vaginosis. Once the diagnosis is confirmed with lab tests, the condition is usually treated with antibiotics.

 

Bacterial Vaginosis: An Introduction

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a condition in women that occurs when the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted and replaced by an overgrowth of certain bacteria. Bacterial vaginosis is sometimes accompanied by:
 
  • Discharge
  • Odor
  • Pain
  • Itching
  • Burning.
     

Cause of Bacterial Vaginosis

The main bacterial vaginosis cause is an imbalance in the bacteria that are normally present in the vagina. Other factors, though not a true bacterial vaginosis cause on their own, can make a woman more likely to develop this condition. Some of these factors include:
 
  • Having multiple sex partners
  • Douching
  • Not using a condom
  • Using an intrauterine device (IUD).
     

Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis will often cause a vaginal discharge. The discharge is usually thin and milky and is described as having a "fishy" odor. This odor may become more noticeable after intercourse. Redness or itching of the vagina are not common symptoms of bacterial vaginosis, but they can occur. It is important to note that many women with bacterial vaginosis have no symptoms at all and the condition is only discovered during a routine gynecologic exam.
 

Diagnosing Bacterial Vaginosis

A healthcare provider must examine the vagina for signs of bacterial vaginosis. There is also a test to find out if you have BV. Your doctor takes a sample of fluid from your vagina and has it tested. The doctor may also be able to see signs of bacterial vaginosis, like a grayish-white discharge, during an examination of the vagina.
 

Treatment for Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis treatment usually consists of a course of antibiotics. While the condition does clear up on its own in some cases, all women with symptoms should receive treatment for bacterial vaginosis to avoid future complications.
 

Preventing Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis prevention requires open communication with your healthcare provider and sexual partners. Practicing safe sex is a key part of preventing bacterial vaginosis. By preventing bacterial vaginosis, you can avoid many of the complications that may occur with this condition.
 

Statistics Regarding Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is the most common vaginal infection in women of childbearing age. In the United States, as many as 16 percent of pregnant women have bacterial vaginosis.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD