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Read MoreUnderstanding Bacterial Vaginosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Medically reviewed by Oghenefejiro Okifo | MD, Harvard Medical School | Henry Ford Hospital - Detroit, MI on October 12th, 2023.
Key Takeaways
This condition affects up to 30% of women when harmful bacteria like Gardnerella vaginalis overgrow and disrupt the normal Lactobacillus-dominant vaginal environment.
About 50% of cases are asymptomatic, but when present, symptoms include thin gray or white discharge with a distinctive fishy odor that intensifies after intercourse or menstruation.
Risk increases significantly with new or multiple sexual partners, douching (which raises risk 2-4 times), smoking, and using scented soaps or feminine hygiene products that alter vaginal pH.
Standard treatment involves oral metronidazole 500mg twice daily for 7 days or clindamycin cream 2% nightly for 7 days, with cure rates around 80-90%.
Untreated cases double the risk of acquiring HIV and other STDs, and increase pregnancy complications including preterm birth (occurring in 10-15% of untreated pregnant women versus 5% normally).
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection that affects many people with vaginas. It occurs when the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted, leading to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. While BV is not a sexually transmitted disease (STD), it can increase the risk of contracting STDs and cause complications during pregnancy.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of BV is not well understood, but several factors can increase the likelihood of developing the infection:
Being sexually active, especially with multiple partners
Douching or using scented soaps and vaginal deodorants
Having an intrauterine device (IUD)
Smoking
Having a naturally low level of lactobacilli bacteria in the vagina
Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis
About half of the people with BV do not experience any symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include:
Thin, watery vaginal discharge that may be white, gray, or greenish
Fishy odor, especially after sex
Pain, burning, or itching in the vagina
Burning sensation when urinating
Diagnosis and Treatment
If you suspect you have BV, it is important to see your doctor for a proper diagnosis. Your doctor may perform a pelvic exam, check your vaginal pH, and take a sample of your vaginal discharge for testing. Once diagnosed, BV can be treated with antibiotics, which may be in the form of pills, creams, or suppositories.
In addition to antibiotics, some home remedies may help alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrent infections:
Probiotics, found in foods like yogurt and supplements, can help restore the balance of bacteria in the vagina
Garlic supplements may be as effective as antibiotics in relieving BV symptoms
Vitamin C supplements may improve vaginal pH and increase levels of healthy bacteria
Boric acid suppositories can help rebalance vaginal acidity and relieve itching and burning
Complications and Prevention
Untreated BV can lead to various complications, including an increased risk of STDs, pelvic inflammatory disease, and pregnancy-related issues such as preterm birth and low birth weight. To prevent BV, it is recommended to:
Use condoms during sex
Avoid douching and scented vaginal products
Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom
Wear cotton or cotton-lined underwear
Clean sex toys after every use
If you experience recurrent BV, it is crucial to work with your healthcare provider to identify the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. With proper care and attention, most cases of BV can be effectively managed, allowing you to maintain optimal vaginal health.
For more information on bacterial vaginosis and other vaginal health topics, visit:
The Bottom Line
While easily treatable with antibiotics, this common infection requires proper diagnosis since symptoms overlap with yeast infections and other conditions. Prevention focuses on avoiding douching and maintaining gentle hygiene practices with unscented products. If you're experiencing unusual discharge or odor, Doctronic can help you get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan quickly.
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