What is bacterial vaginosis (BV)?
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of bacteria. Every healthy vagina contains bacteria. Normally, these bacteria balance each other out. Sometimes, the "bad" bacteria overgrow and overwhelm the "good" bacteria. This upsets the balance of bacteria in the vagina and causes bacterial vaginosis.
Bacterial vaginosis may cause vaginal discharge to have a "fishy" odor. It may also cause vaginal irritation in some people. Others may not have any symptoms of bacterial vaginosis.
How common is bacterial vaginosis?
Bacterial vaginosis is the most common vaginal problem in women aged 15 to 44 and people assigned female at birth (AFAB). In fact, about 35% of people with vaginas will develop bacterial vaginosis. The incidence is higher if you are black. (Source: https://tinyurl.com/3ctfmkew)
Who gets BV?
Anyone with a vagina can get bacterial vaginosis. It usually happens in people who are sexually active. It rarely happens in people who have never been sexually active. Some people may naturally have too many of the bacteria that cause BV.
You are at higher risk for BV if you:
▸ Are pregnant.
▸ Don’t use condoms or oral dams.
▸ Have an intrauterine device (IUD).
▸ Have multiple sex partners.
▸ Have a new sex partner.
▸ Have an AFAB sex partner.
▸ Use a douche.
▸ Are taking antibiotics.
What are the symptoms of BV?
Up to 84% of people with BV have no symptoms. If you do have symptoms, you may have:
▸Off-white, gray, or green vaginal discharge.
▸ Vaginal discharge that smells fishy, especially after sex.
▸ Vaginal itching or irritation.
▸ Burning when you urinate.
Symptoms of BV are similar to those of other infections. It is important to see your doctor to determine if you have BV or another vaginal infection.
Is bacterial vaginosis contagious?
Bacterial vaginosis is not spread from person to person, but sexual activity can increase your risk of infection.
How can I get rid of bacterial vaginosis (BV)?
Your healthcare provider will prescribe antibiotics, usually metronidazole or clindamycin. These medicines come as a gel or cream that is inserted into the vagina. Some antibiotics are pills that you can take by mouth (swallow).
It is important to complete your antibiotic treatment and take them as prescribed by your doctor. Stopping medication early because your symptoms are gone can increase your risk of getting another bacterial vaginosis infection.
Can bacterial vaginosis go away on its own?
Some cases of bacterial vaginosis go away on their own without medication. However, if you have symptoms, you should seek medical help. Having bacterial vaginosis can make you more susceptible to sexually transmitted infections and can affect pregnancy.
How can I reduce my risk of getting bacterial vaginosis (BV)?
You cannot prevent bacterial vaginosis. However, you can reduce your risk by taking the following precautions:
▸Avoid douching. This can change the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina. Instead, practice healthy vaginal and vulvar care.
▸ Avoid contact between your vagina and anything that has touched your anus. Things like toilet paper and sex toys can transfer bacteria from feces to your vagina. Make sure you clean your sex toys properly after each use.
▸ Limit the number of sexual partners you have. Studies show that if you have multiple sexual partners, you are more likely to get BV.
▸ Use latex condoms or oral dams. While the cause is unclear, studies have linked sex to BV.
▸ Wear cotton underwear. Bacteria thrive in moist environments. Cotton underwear helps wick away moisture.
