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Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of harmful, pathological bacteria. It can lead to changes in vaginal discharge, including odor and color. BV is treatable with antibiotics.
Symptoms
Although 84% of women with bacterial vaginosis (BV) have no symptoms, others may experience:
- Change in vaginal discharge odor and color (grayish or greenish with a fishy smell),
- Vaginal itching and irritation
- Burning during urination.
The symptoms of BV are like a yeast infection; hence, it should receive proper diagnosis for appropriate treatment.
When to see a doctor?
Seek medical attention if your vaginal discharge has an unusual odor or appearance. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) can mimic symptoms of a yeast infection or other sexually transmitted diseases, so proper diagnosis is essential for appropriate treatment.
Causes
Imbalanced bacterial growth
Douching or unprotected sex can cause bacterial vaginosis (BV) by disrupting the balance of bacteria in the vagina.
The vagina naturally contains a variety of bacteria, but some types of bacteria are more harmful than others. Lactobacilli are "good" bacteria that help to maintain a healthy vaginal pH and keep harmful bacteria in check. Anaerobes are "bad" bacteria that can overgrow and cause BV. Douching can remove the good bacteria from the vagina, making it easier for anaerobes to overgrow. Unprotected sex can also introduce new bacteria into the vagina, which can also lead to BV.
Risk factors
Risk factors for bacterial vaginosis (BV) include:
- Multiple sex partners or a new sex partner
- Vaginal douching
- Pregnancy
- Unprotected sex
- Using an intrauterine device (IUD)
- Taking antibiotics
- A natural lack of lactobacilli bacteria (rare)
Diagnosis
- History taking and pelvic exam.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) can only be diagnosed by a doctor. They will ask about your medical history of sexually transmitted diseases and vaginal infections and examine your vaginal discharge for signs of infection. - Lab tests
A sample of your vaginal discharge may be taken and sent to a laboratory to identify the type of bacteria. The healthcare professional may perform several tests, such as a wet mount, whiff test, or vaginal pH test.
Treatment
Treatment for bacterial vaginosis (BV) typically involves antibiotics, which can be taken orally or applied vaginally. Please complete your medications as directed. Failure to complete the treatment may cause recurrence within 3-12 months. Extended-use metronidazole therapy may be prescribed if symptoms recur. Common antibiotics used to treat BV include:
- Metronidazole is available as oral pills, topical gel, or suppositories. Side effects may include nausea and stomach pain. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages while taking metronidazole.
- Clindamycin comes in the form of cream or suppositories. Do not have sexual intercourse during treatment and for 3 days after treatment.
- Tinidazole is an oral pill. The side effect is stomach pain. Avoid alcoholic beverages while taking tinidazole.
- Secnidazole can be mixed and taken with food such as yogurt or pudding. It should be consumed within 30 minutes. Do not chew the medication.
It is crucial to complete the course of antibiotics as your doctor prescribes, even if your symptoms improve sooner, to ensure the infection is completely cleared.
Complications
Complications of bacterial vaginosis (BV) can include:
- Increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, herpes simplex virus, and HIV
- Increased risk of infection after a hysterectomy or dilation and curettage (D&C)
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can lead to infertility and ectopic pregnancy.
- Preterm birth and low birth weight
Prevention
- Avoid using scented feminine products such as pads, tampons, or vaginal deodorants.
- Avoid douching.
- Use condoms or dental dams during sex.
- Limit the number of your sex partners.
Preparation before the doctor’s appointment
- Schedule an appointment for when you are not menstruating. This will make it easier for your doctor to examine your vagina and take a sample of vaginal discharge, if necessary.
- Do not douche or have sexual intercourse for 24 hours before your appointment. This will help to ensure that your doctor gets an accurate assessment of your vaginal health.
- Make a list of your symptoms, medications, and dietary supplements you have been taking, and questions you would like to ask your doctor. This will help you make the most of your appointment and get the information you should know.
Here are some example questions you may want to ask your doctor:
- What can I do to prevent bacterial vaginosis?
- What are the signs and symptoms of bacterial vaginosis?
- Do I need to take medication?
- Does my partner need to be tested or treated?
- What should I do if I have a recurrence?
Here are some questions your doctor may ask you about your symptoms of bacterial vaginosis (BV):
- What symptoms are you experiencing?
- When did your symptoms start?
- Do you have a fishy vaginal odor?
- Have you had a vaginal infection before?
- Have you been taking any antibiotics recently?
- Do you use any scented feminine products or fragrant soap?
These questions can help your doctor diagnose BV and rule out other possible causes of your symptoms.
FAQ
- What is the difference between bacterial vaginosis and a yeast infection?
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and a yeast infection are two common vaginal infections. They have different causes, symptoms, and treatments.- Odor: Vaginal discharge from bacterial vaginosis has a strong fishy odor, whereas discharge from yeast infection does not.
- Vaginal irritation: Vaginal discharge from bacterial vaginosis does not cause irritation, whereas yeast infection does.
- Treatment: Women with bacterial vaginosis should have a proper diagnosis and prescription antibiotics, while those with yeast infection can be treated with over-the-counter medications.
BV can cause a change in vaginal discharge, which may become thin and watery or thick and clumpy. Yeast infection can also cause a change in vaginal discharge, but it is typically thick and white, like cottage cheese.
- Is bacterial vaginosis considered a sexually transmitted disease?
BV is not considered a sexually transmitted disease (STD), but sexual intercourse can increase the risk of developing BV.
If you think you may have BV, it is essential to see a doctor to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.
