Bacterial vaginosis is a common vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. It affects millions of women worldwide, causing a wide range of symptoms and discomfort. Although it is not something to be ashamed of, many women are unaware of the condition and feel embarrassed to seek medical attention when experiencing symptoms. In this article, we will explore what bacterial vaginosis is, what causes it, what symptoms to look out for, and how to treat it.
What is Bacterial Vaginosis?
Bacterial vaginosis, or BV, is a type of vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. It occurs when the bacteria that normally live in the vagina become imbalanced, allowing harmful bacteria to grow and thrive. The most common bacteria that cause BV are Gardnerella vaginalis and Atopobium vaginae. However, there are many other types of bacteria that can contribute to this condition as well.
While bacterial vaginosis is not considered a sexually transmitted infection, it is more common in sexually active women. This is because sexual activity can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the vagina, making it easier for harmful bacteria to grow. It is also more common in women who have multiple sexual partners or who douche regularly. However, you can still get BV even if you are not sexually active.
What Causes Bacterial Vaginosis?
The exact cause of bacterial vaginosis is not fully understood. However, there are several factors that can contribute to the development of this condition. These include:
- Imbalanced vaginal bacteria – As mentioned earlier, bacterial vaginosis occurs when the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted, allowing harmful bacteria to grow.
- Sexual activity – While BV is not considered a sexually transmitted infection, it is more common in sexually active women. This is because sexual activity can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the vagina.
- Douching – Douching is the practice of washing the inside of the vagina with water or other solutions. This can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the vagina and make it easier for harmful bacteria to grow.
- Use of vaginal products – Certain vaginal products, such as scented soaps, douches, and bubble baths, can also disrupt the balance of bacteria in the vagina.
- Pregnancy – Pregnant women are more likely to develop BV due to hormonal changes in the body that can affect the balance of bacteria in the vagina.
Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis can cause a wide range of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. Some women may not experience any symptoms at all. However, the most common symptoms of BV include:
- Abnormal vaginal discharge – This can be thin, white, gray, or greenish-yellow in color and may have a fishy odor.
- Burning or itching around the vagina.
- Pain or discomfort during sex.
- Pain or discomfort during urination.
- Itching or redness around the vagina.
Treating Bacterial Vaginosis
If you suspect that you have bacterial vaginosis, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Your doctor may perform a pelvic exam and take a sample of your vaginal discharge to test for BV. If you are diagnosed with BV, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to help clear up the infection.
It is important to take all of your antibiotics as prescribed, even if your symptoms go away before you finish the medication. This will help ensure that all of the harmful bacteria are destroyed.
In addition to antibiotics, there are several things you can do to help prevent BV from recurring:
- Avoid douching.
- Avoid using scented soaps, bubble baths, or other vaginal products.
- Wear cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothing.
- Avoid having multiple sexual partners.
- Use condoms during sex.
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet.
- Get enough sleep and exercise regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is bacterial vaginosis contagious?
No, bacterial vaginosis is not considered a contagious condition. However, it is more common in sexually active women and can be transmitted through sexual activity.
2. Can bacterial vaginosis be cured?
Yes, bacterial vaginosis can usually be cured with antibiotics. However, it is important to complete the full course of medication to ensure that all of the harmful bacteria are destroyed.
3. Can bacterial vaginosis cause infertility?
In some cases, untreated bacterial vaginosis can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, which can cause infertility. However, with prompt treatment, this is rare.
4. Can bacterial vaginosis cause miscarriage?
Some studies suggest that untreated bacterial vaginosis may increase the risk of premature birth and low birth weight. However, with prompt treatment, the risk is greatly reduced.