All About Bacterial Vaginosis

• Bacterial Vaginosis

This eMedTV article discusses bacterial vaginosis in detail, including causes, symptoms, and treatment. Bacterial vaginosis is caused by an overabundance of harmful bacteria in the vagina, which disrupts the normal balance of healthy bacteria.

• Causes of Bacterial Vaginosis

Douching or not using a condom, as this eMedTV page explains, while not actual causes of bacterial vaginosis, may cause an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the vagina. Toilet seats and swimming pools are not causes of bacterial vaginosis.

• Bacterial Vaginosis Symptoms

Common bacterial vaginosis symptoms discussed in this eMedTV resource include abnormal discharge that is fishy-smelling, vaginal itching, and vaginal irritation. The risk bacterial vaginosis symptoms present during pregnancy is also discussed.

• Preventing Bacterial Vaginosis

As this eMedTV segment explains, preventing bacterial vaginosis includes honest communication with your sexual partner(s) and doctor. Other ways of preventing bacterial vaginosis, such as not douching, are aimed at maintaining the healthy bacteria.

• Treatment for Bacterial Vaginosis

This eMedTV article explains the typical treatment for bacterial vaginosis -- a course of antibiotics. While the condition can clear up on its own, to prevent complications or a recurrence of the disease, treatment for bacterial vaginosis is advised.

• Bacterial Vaginosis and Pregnancy

Women of childbearing years need to be aware of the threat posed by bacterial vaginosis and pregnancy. This eMedTV article examines the connection between bacterial vaginosis and pregnancy, and includes a link to more information about the condition.