Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection that happens when some normal bacteria that lives in the vagina overgrows, causing a bacterial imbalance. Symptoms include an off-white or grey vaginal discharge that smells “fishy.” In some women, BV goes away without treatment, in others, antibiotics successfully treat this infection.
WHAT IS BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a vaginal infection caused by bacteria. It is the most common cause of abnormal vaginal discharge that occurs in reproductive-age women (women who have not gone through menopause yet).
Bacterial vaginosis may cause a “fishy” odor and cause vaginal irritation in some women. Others may not have any symptoms.
Bacterial vaginosis is associated with poor obstetrics and gynecologic outcomes such as preterm delivery, infection after surgeries such as a hysterectomy, and may make a woman more susceptible to sexually transmitted infections, especially HIV.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal problem for women ages 15 to 44. In fact, an estimated one in three American women will get BV. The rate is higher in black women.
WHO CAN GET BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS?
Anyone with a vagina can get bacterial vaginosis (BV), even if you haven’t had sex. But that’s rare. It usually occurs in people who are sexually active. You may have a higher risk of getting BV if you:
- Are pregnant.
- Don’t use condoms.
- Have an intrauterine device (IUD).
- Have multiple sex partners.
- Have a new sex partner.
- Have a female sex partner.
- Use douches.
CAUSES OF BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS
Your vagina is home to multiple types of bacteria (called a microbiome), just like your digestive system. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) happens when some of the vaginal bacteria grow more quickly than others. Too much of one type of bacteria leads to an imbalance.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) doesn’t spread from person to person, but sexual activity can increase your risk of getting the infection.
SYMPTOMS
Some people with bacterial vaginosis (BV) don’t have symptoms. You might not know about this but you might observe the following symptoms;
- Off-white, grey or greenish color vaginal discharge (fluid).
- Discharge that smells “fishy.”
- “Fishy” smell that is strongest after sex or during the menstrual cycle.
- Rarely, an itchy or sore vagina.
BV symptoms are similar to other infections. It’s important to visit your healthcare provider to determine if what you have is BV or another vaginal infection