The main causes of bacterial vaginosis are too many harmful bacteria in the vagina, causing an imbalance. Factors such as having multiple sex partners, douching, not using a condom, or using an intrauterine device (IUD) may lead to this increase in bacteria. These factors, although not true causes of bacterial vaginosis on their own, can make a woman more likely to develop this condition.
Causes of Bacterial Vaginosis: An Overview
The causes of
bacterial vaginosis are not fully understood. It can develop when something like sexual contact disrupts the balance between the "good" bacteria that protect the vagina from infection and the harmful bacteria that don't.
Causes of Bacterial Vaginosis: The Role of Sexual Contact
It is not clear what role sexual activity plays in the development of bacterial vaginosis, but bacterial vaginosis is more common among women who have had vaginal sex. However, sexual contact is not always a cause of bacterial vaginosis.
Risk Factors for Bacterial Vaginosis
We do know that certain things can upset the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina and put you at increased risk for bacterial vaginosis. Some of these things include:
- Having a new sex partner or multiple sex partners
- Douching
- Using an intrauterine device (IUD) for birth control
- Not using a condom during sex.
We also know that you do not get bacterial vaginosis from toilet seats, bedding, swimming pools, or from touching objects around you.
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