Summary about Disease
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina. Normally, "good" bacteria (lactobacilli) are more numerous than "bad" bacteria. In BV, the balance is disrupted, and there's an overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria. It is not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but it's associated with sexual activity.
Symptoms
Many women with BV have no symptoms. When symptoms are present, they may include:
Thin, grayish-white vaginal discharge
Foul-smelling, "fishy" odor (especially after sex)
Vaginal itching
Burning during urination
Causes
The exact cause of BV is unknown, but several factors can disrupt the normal bacterial balance in the vagina, including:
Douching
Multiple sexual partners
Lack of lactobacilli in the vagina
Natural lack of the bacteria
Medicine Used
4. Medicine used Antibiotics are used to treat BV. Common medications include:
Metronidazole (oral or vaginal gel)
Clindamycin (vaginal cream) A doctor can prescribe the appropriate medication and dosage.
Is Communicable
BV is generally not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI), however, it is associated with sexual activity. It's unlikely to be transmitted to male partners, but it can be more common in women who are sexually active.
Precautions
To reduce the risk of BV:
Avoid douching
Limit the number of sexual partners
Use condoms
Avoid scented soaps or feminine hygiene products
How long does an outbreak last?
With appropriate antibiotic treatment, BV typically clears up within a week. However, recurrence is common, and some women may experience repeated infections.
How is it diagnosed?
BV is diagnosed through:
Pelvic exam
Testing a sample of vaginal discharge. A doctor will look for a high pH, clue cells (vaginal cells coated with bacteria), and a "fishy" odor when potassium hydroxide is added to the sample.
Timeline of Symptoms
9. Timeline of symptoms
Symptoms may appear gradually.
The discharge and odor may be more noticeable after sexual intercourse or during menstruation.
Symptoms can fluctuate in severity.
In some cases, symptoms resolve on their own without treatment, but treatment is generally recommended to prevent complications and recurrence.
Important Considerations
BV can increase the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV.
In pregnant women, BV can increase the risk of preterm labor and low birth weight.
It's essential to complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence.
Avoid alcohol consumption while taking metronidazole (oral), as it can cause severe nausea and vomiting.
If symptoms persist or recur after treatment, consult a healthcare provider.