What is bacterial vaginosis?
Bacterial vaginosis is a mild infection of the vagina caused by a type of bacteria (germ). The vagina usually contains a lot of “good” bacteria, called lactobacilli. It also contains several other types of bacteria, called anaerobes. Too many anaerobic bacteria can cause bacterial vaginosis. It is not known why anaerobic bacteria overgrow and cause this infection.
Symptoms of bacterial vaginosis
You may notice discharge from your vagina. Discharge may be clear or colored. It can be very light or heavy. It may have a fishy smell. This smell may be stronger after you have sex. Some women have bacterial vaginosis without any symptoms.
What causes bacterial vaginosis?
Bacterial vaginosis is an overgrowth of bacteria normally found in the vagina. Researchers don’t fully understand why it happens. However, activities like douching can put you at a higher risk of bacterial vaginosis. So it’s possible to have a new sex partner or multiple sex partners – even though it’s not a sexually transmitted disease. Bacterial vaginosis is more common in sexually active women. But it also occurs in women who are not sexually active. Your sex partners usually don’t need treatment if they come into contact with you.
How is bacterial vaginosis diagnosed?
Your doctor will examine your vagina and use a cotton swab to collect a sample of discharge. This sample will be tested to see if you have too much anaerobic bacteria.
Can bacterial vaginosis be prevented or avoided?
You may not be able to prevent bacterial vaginosis. Your doctor may recommend using things like probiotics. You will take these by mouth or by placing them in your vagina. Other ways to reduce your risk:
- Use lots of condoms. Condoms can help prevent the spread of bacterial vaginosis.
- Keep sex toys clean. Do not share sex toys with others. Always clean them after use.
- Limit your number of sexual partners. Monogamy (having sex only with one partner) is one of the best ways to prevent bacterial vaginosis.
- Do not douche. This can cause an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina.
- See your doctor. If you feel you have symptoms of bacterial vaginosis, tell your doctor.
Treatment of bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis can be treated in a number of ways. Your doctor may prescribe medication for you to take. They may also prescribe a cream or gel to put in your vagina. It is important to use your medicine exactly as your doctor tells you to.
If your doctor prescribes metronidazole or other medicines, do not drink any alcohol while taking them. You should not drink alcohol for 24 hours after taking metronidazole. Combining alcohol with these drugs can cause nausea and vomiting. Even the small amount of alcohol in many cough syrups can cause nausea and vomiting if you are taking metronidazole. Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medications you are currently taking.
If the infection is left untreated, the bacteria can spread into the uterus or fallopian tubes and cause a more serious infection. Treating bacterial vaginosis reduces this risk. Treatment is especially important in pregnant women.
Living with bacterial vaginosis
Some women have chronic (recurrent) bacterial vaginosis. Medicines can clear up the infection, but it will come back after a few weeks. Some women report that bacterial vaginosis comes back every month after their period. Or it can come back after they have sex. Talk to your doctor if you have chronic bacterial vaginosis. Your doctor may be able to suggest some lifestyle changes that may help, such as taking probiotics.