Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an infection of the vagina that develops when the normal balance of vaginal bacteria is disrupted. BV is the most common vaginal infection in women of childbearing age.

Examples of activities that change the normal bacterial balance include douching, taking antibiotics, wearing an intrauterine device (IUD), and having unprotected sexual activity. BV is more common in sexually active women than in non-sexually active women, but it is not considered a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

The main symptom of BV is a thin vaginal discharge that appears grayish white and smells of fish, especially after sexual activity. Other symptoms may include burning when urinating, itching around the outside of the vagina, and irritation. These symptoms may also be caused by another type of infection, so it is important to see a doctor. Many women with BV have no symptoms at all.

BV is often diagnosed based on a pelvic exam and symptoms, however certain tests can help confirm the diagnosis.

BV will sometimes go away without treatment. Your healthcare provider may choose to treat it with antibiotics if your symptoms persist.

Any woman can get BV. But certain activities can upset the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina, raising your risk of BV:

• Having a new sex partner or multiple sex partners
• Douching
• Using an intrauterine device (IUD) for birth control
• Not using a condom

BV is more common among women who are sexually active, but it is not clear how sex changes the balance of bacteria.

See your doctor for unusual vaginal discharge, odor, itching, or burning, especially if you are pregnant. BV is easily treated with prescription medication, and a check-up rules out other infections.