What Is Bacterial Vaginosis?
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. It is sometimes accompanied by:
- Discharge
- Odor
- Pain
- Itching
- Burning.
The main cause of BV is an imbalance in the bacteria that are normally present in the vagina. Other factors, though not true causes 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).
(Click Causes of Bacterial Vaginosis for more information.)
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 this condition have no symptoms at all, and the condition is only discovered during a routine gynecologic exam.
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