Navigation
[TITLE]

[MESSAGE]

[BUTTONS]

Popular questions...

Content

What are the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis?

The main symptoms of bacterial vaginosis are a greyish discharge from the vagina, and an unpleasant 'fishy' odor from the vagina. However, some women with bacterial vaginosis may not experience any symptoms at all.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is bacterial vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis is a common vaginal infection. It occurs when there is an overgrowth of certain bacteria that are normally found in the vagina. This can result in a grey-colored vaginal discharge, although some women may not experience any symptoms.

What causes bacterial vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis occurs when there is an overgrowth of certain bacteria in the vagina. In particular, there is less of the normal vaginal bacteria Lactobacillus and an overgrowth of other types of bacteria, such as Gardnerella vaginalis, Mycoplasma …

Is bacterial vaginosis a sexually-transmitted infection?

Although bacterial vaginosis is more common in sexually active women and sometimes develops after having sex with a new partner, bacterial vaginosis is not classified as a sexually-transmitted infection (STI), as it is not passed on …

How do I know if I have bacterial vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis is diagnosed by a doctor, with the help of laboratory testing.

How is bacterial vaginosis diagnosed?

To work out if you have bacterial vaginosis, your doctor may ask you about your symptoms and perform a physical examination. They may take a sample of the vaginal discharge and send it to a laboratory to check the number and type of bacteria present …

How is bacterial vaginosis treated?

If symptoms are present, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics, such as metronidazole, to treat the bacterial vaginosis and help restore the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina. In some cases a vaginal cream, such as clindamycin, may be prescribed …

Can I prevent getting bacterial vaginosis?

As the exact cause of bacterial vaginosis is not known, there is no sure way to protect yourself from getting it. You may be able to reduce the risk of getting bacterial vaginosis by avoiding douching, not using heavily perfumed soaps and other …

Will having bacterial vaginosis affect my pregnancy?

Having bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy increases the risk of a premature birth and delivering a baby with a low birth weight. Women who have the condition during pregnancy can be treated with specific antibiotics.

Is bacterial vaginosis serious?

Bacterial vaginosis is not usually a serious condition. Some mild cases may go away on their own without any treatment, or resolve after antibiotic treatment. It does not usually cause any lasting health issues.

Related topics

Diseases & conditions

Vaginal discharge

It is normal for women to have some vaginal discharge. The appearance and amount of discharge will vary, according to factors such as ovulation, pregnancy or starting oral contraceptive medication. There are infections such as thrush, chlamydia and gonorrhoea that can also cause changes to vaginal discharge.…
Diseases & conditions

Vaginal itching

Vaginal itching is experienced by many women and may be accompanied by vaginal discharge. There are many causes for vaginal itching. Generally, it is easily treated.…
Diseases & conditions

Pelvic inflammatory disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease, or PID, is the infection of a woman’s reproductive organs and surrounding pelvic tissues. It occurs most commonly when a sexually-transmitted infection spreads beyond the vagina to internal pelvic organs. This can lead to long-term complications if not recognised and treated early.…
Diseases & conditions

Vulvovaginitis in girls

Vulvovaginitis is the inflammation of the lining of the vagina and outer genitalia, and is a common condition in young girls. Although it can be uncomfortable and cause pain and discharge, it is usually easy to treat.…
Diseases & conditions

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a long-term condition in women causing an imbalance in sex hormones. Symptoms include weight gain, acne, and increase in facial or body hair, which can all affect self-esteem. There are a range of treatments available to help manage the condition.…
Diseases & conditions

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition that affects many women. It can cause severe gripping pain in the lower abdomen and back, especially during a woman’s period. It is caused by cells that normally line the womb growing elsewhere, such as on the ovaries, in the pelvis or abdomen. However, there are numerous treatment options available to control the condition.…

About this article

Author: Dr Nikki Wallis PhD, BSc
First answered: 22 Nov 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Votes: 1167 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Vaginal discharge

×

Content goes in here.