Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a vaginal infection caused by the excess growth of bacteria naturally present in the vagina, that disturbs the normal balance. It can lead to vaginal itchiness, unusual discharge and odour. In most cases, the body would be able to get rid of bacterial vaginosis on its own. It usually affects women in the reproductive years, but it can affect women of any age. The cause of bacterial vaginosis is still not very evident, but certain activities like unprotected sex, or frequent douching can elevate the risk. Seek prompt medical care to help to avert complications, as without proper treatment it can increase the risk of other health problems.
Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis
Most women with bacterial vaginosis will not show any symptoms and if symptoms develop, they typically include:
- Changes in vaginal discharge
- Burning, itching and irritation in the vaginal region
- Burning sensation while urinating
Vaginal discharge may be:
- Watery, thin consistency
- White colour or grey colour
- Strong, unpleasant odour
There may be a burning sensation while urinating and itching around the outside of the vagina. But it is less common.
Also Read: Vaginal Yeast Infection: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
Causes of Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis results from an imbalance in the number of beneficial and harmful bacteria that naturally thrive in the vagina. The main reasons for an imbalance include:
- Sex with a new partner
- Sex with multiple partners
- Douching
- Not using a preventive method, such as a condom, during sex
- Pregnancy
- Been on antibiotics recently
Bacterial vaginosis occurs after sex with a new partner. Bacterial vaginosis is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but it can up the risk of developing an STI.
Complications
Bacterial vaginosis is not a dangerous condition, but it can elevate the risk of other health problems.
General Health Complications
Sexually transmitted infections like:
- Herpes
- Human papillomavirus, (HPV)
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
Pregnancy Complications
Possible complications of bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy include:
- Preterm delivery
- Abortion
- Early breaking of the amniotic sac
- Postpartum endometritis
- Chorioamnionitis is an inflammation of the membranes around the foetus
Fertility Complications
Bacterial vaginosis can directly risk the possibility of conceiving and also increase the risk of complications that can affect fertility, which include:
- Infertility
- Tubal factor infertility
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Unsuccessful in vitro fertilization (IVF)
Diagnosis
Your healthcare provider may ask about your complete medical history and any previous vaginal infections or STI’s. Some of the test recommended by your healthcare provider includes.
Pelvic Exam: During this, your doctor visually checks the vagina for any signs of infection and inserts fingers into your vagina while pressing the abdomen with other hand to evaluate your pelvic organs for any signs that may indicate an illness.
Sample Collection: The doctor may take a sample of vaginal secretions to assess for any overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria in the vaginal flora. It is examined under the microscope for “clue cells” vaginal cells covered with bacteria that are indications of bacterial vaginosis.
Vaginal pH: The doctor may check the acidity of your vagina by placing a pH test strip in the vagina, where a pH of 4.5 or higher is a sign of bacterial vaginosis.
Also Read: Female Hygiene: 10 Simple And Effective Ways To Maintain Vaginal Health
Treatment
Your healthcare provider will prescribe antibiotic medication and creams to treat bacterial vaginosis. It is important to take medicine or use cream or gel as long as prescribed by the doctor even if the symptoms settle. Stopping treatment before the course may increase the risk of recurrence.
Prevention
Some of the effective measures to prevent bacterial vaginosis include:
Use mild, nondeodorant soaps and unscented tampons or pads to reduce vaginal irritations.
Remember your vagina doesn’t need cleansing other than normal bathing. While constant douching may impede the vaginal balance and increase your risk of vaginal infection. So avoid douching.
Have sex with preventive methods and limit the number of sex partners or abstain from sexual activity to reduce the risk of a sexually transmitted infection.
