BV (bacterial vaginosis) occurs when harmful bacteria disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina. This eMedTV resource tells you what you need to know about BV, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and more.
Too much of the bacteria normally present in the vagina is the primary cause of bacterial vaginosis. This eMedTV resource talks more about possible causes and provides information on risk factors for the condition, such as douching.
Common signs and symptoms of bacterial vaginosis include foul-smelling discharge and pain during urination. This eMedTV Web page provides in-depth information on the most common bacterial vaginosis symptom and also lists potential complications.
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.
Two different drugs are used as part of bacterial vaginosis treatment, which this eMedTV page describes. This page also discusses why treatment is not always needed, but stresses that doctors often routinely recommend it to prevent certain complications.
Women of childbearing years need to be aware of the threat bacterial vaginosis poses during pregnancy. This eMedTV article examines this topic in more detail and includes a link to more information about bacterial vaginosis.
