Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a condition when certain bacteria in the vagina has overgrowth, causing a change in the balance of the vagina bacteria.

 

What Is Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a condition when certain bacteria in the vagina has overgrowth, causing a change in the balance of the vagina bacteria.

Bacterial vaginosis and vaginal are both vaginal infections. Bacterial vaginosis is the overgrowth of bacteria, and an increase in fungal causes vaginal yeast infection.

Bacterial vaginosis is very common, affecting women aged between 15 - 44. Typically, BV occurs in women who are sexually active than women who are not.

 

What are the Causes of Bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis is often caused by a bacteria known as Gardnerella Vaginalis. The most common type of bacteria in your vagina. Any changes in the chemistry of the vagina's pH balance may lead to infection.

The vaginal pH can be affected for other reasons such as having a new sexual partner, hormonal changes, and douching.

 

What Are The Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis?

Not all women infected with bacterial vaginosis will display symptoms.

Some of the possible symptoms of BV can be:

  • Watery and thin discharge in grey or white with a "fishy smell."
  • Burning sensation during urination
  • Itching around the vagina

 

What Are The Complications of Bacterial Vaginosis?

If left untreated, the complications of BV can include a higher risk of contracting STDs such as,

  • Human papillomavirus (HPV)
  • Herpes simplex virus
  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhea
  • HIV

Other possible complications of BV is Pelvic infamitory disease (PID)

 

When To See A Doctor?

Visit your doctor to have a regular check and discuss your symptoms. Your doctor will perform vaginal swab tests. Treatment may include antibodies.

Most of the time, male sex partners of women diagnosed with BV generally do not need to be treated. However, BV may infect your female sex partners.

 

What Can I Do to Prevent Recurring Bacterial Vaginosis?

  1. Take care of your vagina hygiene
  2. Take probiotics
  3. Prevent sharing and clean your sex toys
  4. Avoid douching
  5. See your doctor

 

Bacterial vaginosis can recur even after your treatment.

If you start experiencing symptoms after treatment, please visit your doctor to determine if you have a recurrent infection or other infections.