Bacterial vaginosis (BV) 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 BV. Once the diagnosis is confirmed with lab tests, the condition is usually treated with antibiotics.
The main cause of this condition is an imbalance in the bacteria that are normally present in the vagina. Factors that can contribute to this condition include:
- Having multiple sex partners
- Douching
- Your partner not using a condom during sex
- Using an intrauterine device (IUD).
These factors, although not true causes of BV on their own, can make a woman more likely to develop the disease.
Of the different BV symptoms, the symptom women report most commonly is an abnormal, fishy-smelling vaginal discharge. This can be white or gray in color and may be worse after sexual intercourse. Another common symptom is pain during urination or itching around the vagina. Not all women have symptoms of BV, so diagnosing it requires a physical exam and possibly lab tests.
(For a more detailed look at this topic, click BV Symptoms.)
BV presents special risks for women who are pregnant. If you are pregnant, be sure to see a doctor right away if you notice the possible symptoms of bacterial vaginosis
(see BV and Pregnancy).
A healthcare provider must examine the vagina in order to make a diagnosis of
bacterial vaginosis. There is also a test to find out if you have it. For this test, the doctor takes a sample of fluid from your vagina and has it tested. The doctor may also be able to see signs of BV -- like a grayish-white discharge -- during an examination of the vagina.
Treatment usually consists of a course of antibiotics -- the dose can vary between pregnant and non-pregnant women. The condition can clear up on its own in some cases. However, all women with possible symptoms of BV (or those having certain surgical procedures) should receive a proper diagnosis and treatment to avoid future complications or a recurrence of the disease.
(Click Treatment for BV to learn more about how bacterial vaginosis is treated.)
BV prevention requires open communication with your healthcare provider and sexual partners. Practicing safe sex is a key part of preventing BV, as is having sex with only one partner -- or even abstaining from sex altogether. By preventing BV, you can avoid many of the potentially serious complications that can occur with this condition.
