Bacterial
Vaginosis
Also known as vaginal
bacteriosis or BV, and formerly known as gardnerella, bacterial vaginosis is one of
the most common infections of a woman's
reproductive system. It is caused by an
overgrowth of naturally occurring bacteria in
the vagina. The vagina is a host to many strains
of harmless bacteria (known as flora), primarily
lactobacillus. These bacteria maintain an acid
environment & help prevent harmful bacteria
and yeast such as candidiasis (responsible for
thrush). When bacterial vaginosis occurs, the
balance of bacteria in the vagina changes,
typically, there are less lactobacillus & an
overgrowth of other types of bacteria.
Bacterial
vaginosis is not sexually transmitted, although
it is more common in women who are sexually
active. Other contributing factors include the
IUD, smoking, vaginal douching.
Bacterial
vaginosis symptoms:
-
The most
common symptom of BV is a milky white/grey
vaginal discharge which has an unpleasant,
fishy odour. The smell may become worse
after sexual intercourse.
-
Itching &
burning can sometimes occur.
Many women with
bacterial vaginosis will be asymptomatic.
Bacterial
vaginosis complications:
Generally, BV
isn't a serious condition. However, it can lead
to complications such as premature rupture of
the membranes in pregnant women, increased risk
of STD's, HIV and pelvic inflammatory disease.
Bacterial
vaginosis diagnosis:
Bacterial
vaginosis is may be diagnosed by symptoms alone.
However, for confirmation, your doctor may take
a swab of vaginal secretions which is then sent
to a laboratory for testing.
Bacterial
vaginosis treatment:
Asymptomatic women
may not require treatment unless;
-
You are
pregnant, due to the increased risk of
preterm delivery.
-
You will be
having surgery such as a vaginal
hysterectomy or abortion. This is due to the
increased risk of pelvic inflammatory
disease in women with BV.
If symptoms are
present, antibiotics are the treatment of
choice, anti bacterial creams may also be
prescribed.
Also see:
Genital Herpes,
Genital Warts,
Pubic Lice,
Thrush
Please note:
The medical
articles on this site have not been written by a
doctor & should not be considered a replacement for a
doctor visit. The articles are provided for
informative purposes only.
Always seek
immediate medical advice for any problems.
While great
care has been made in the creation of these articles, we
cannot guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages.
If in any doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical
advice.
