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.