Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a bacterial infection of the vagina. It is caused by a change in the healthy balance of vaginal bacteria. Learn more about this condition, the symptoms, causes and treatment options.
What is bacterial vaginosis?
Symptoms of bacterial vaginosis
What causes bacterial vaginosis?
How is bacterial vaginosis diagnosed?
Treatments for bacterial vaginosis
Recurring bacterial vaginosis
Risks of bacterial vaginosis
When to see your doctor
Related resources
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a bacterial infection of the vagina. Research shows that BV affects up to 30% of women at some stage in their life. Sexually active women of all ages can be affected
More than half of all women with BV do not have any symptoms. But some women may experience symptoms, such as:
BV is caused by an overgrowth of ‘bad’ bacteria in your vagina. Most cases are related to sexual activity, but other factors can increase your risk.
Women may be more likely to experience BV if they:
Your doctor will ask questions about your symptoms, medical history and sexual history, including details about past sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They will also ask to examine your vagina. Your doctor may take a vaginal swab to test for abnormal bacteria or do a pH test to check the acidity of your vagina.
BV is usually treated with a course of antibiotics taken as tablets or applied into your vagina as a cream or gel. You will need to take the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms go away before the end of the course. Stopping treatment early may increase the risk of the infection coming back.
BV can reoccur with sexual contact, so avoid sexual activity until you have finished your antibiotics and your symptoms have gone. Research shows that when a male partner is also treated, it may prevent the infection coming back.
BV can spread between female sexual partners. So, if your partner is female and you have been diagnosed with BV, encourage them to follow up with their doctor.
Safer sexual practices, for example, using condoms, can protect against infection, regardless of your sexual partner’s gender.
Avoid using perfumed products, for example, toilet paper, tampons, pads, soaps and washes, in and around your vagina.
Don’t use any douches, as they cause an imbalance in vaginal bacteria, which increases the risk of vaginal infection.
BV can increase the risk of:
BV symptoms can be similar to those of other infections, so it’s important to get the right diagnosis and treatment. If you experience any BV symptoms, see your doctor.
This content has been reviewed by a group of medical subject matter experts, in accordance with Jean Hailes policy.
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