Dealing With Bacterial Vaginosis: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
Most of the time, your body naturally maintains a healthy balance of bacteria(known as bacterial flora)in the vagina. But when an overgrowth of certain types of bacteria occurs, that balance is thrown off, and bacterial vaginosis (BV) can develop.
BV is actually quite common, particularly in women of childbearing age. While the symptoms can be unpleasant, it’s usually easy to treat. However, it’s important to deal with BV when it appears since it could increase your risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Treating BV promptly also helps to prevent potential complications.
Use this guide to learn more about what symptoms to watch for and what you should do if you think you have BV.
Causes of Bacterial Vaginosis
The vagina contains two main types of bacteria: lactobacilli (“good” bacteria) and anaerobes(“bad” bacteria). A balanced bacterial flora requires more good bacteria, which work to keep the bad bacteria under control. But when bad bacteria starts to outnumber the good, the natural balance is upset and BV can develop as a result.
Bacterial Vaginosis Symptoms
Symptoms of bacterial vaginosis may include:
- Thin vaginal discharge with a white, gray or green color
- Vaginal odor with a “fishy” smell that gets stronger after sex
- Burning sensation when urinating
- Vaginal itching
Vaginal discharge and odor are the two most common symptoms of bacterial vaginosis. However, many women with BV don’t show any symptoms.
Risk Factors for Bacterial Vaginosis
The risk for BV may be increased for those who:
- Have more than one sex partner or a new sex partner
- Have unprotected sex
- Use douches or vaginal wash products
- Use an intrauterine device (IUD)for birth control
- Are pregnant
Any of these risk factors can potentially upset the natural bacterial flora in your vagina, creating the potential for bacterial vaginosis to occur.
Bacterial Vaginosis Treatment
The most common treatment for BV is prescription antibiotics, such as metronidazole or clindamycin. It’s important to complete the full course of antibiotics that are prescribed, even if symptoms clear up sooner. You should contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist once the full course of antibiotics is complete.
Some cases of bacterial vaginosis go away without any treatment. However, you should still see your healthcare provider if you notice symptoms since complications could arise if your BV doesn’t clear up on its own.
What to Do if You Have BV Symptoms
Remember that BV is very common, so there’s no need to panic if you notice symptoms developing. Make an appointment with your healthcare provider if you think you may have BV. A vaginal fluid sample can be taken to determine the source of your symptoms and rule out other issues, such as a yeast infection. Once you have an accurate diagnosis, your doctor can determine the best course of treatment.
Possible Complications of BV
When left untreated, BV can potentially cause complications like:
- Sexually transmitted infections: One of the most common complications of bacterial vaginosis is an increased risk of contracting herpes, chlamydia, HIV, and other STIs.
- Preterm birth: Pregnant women with BV may have an increased risk of premature delivery and low birth weight.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease: BV can sometimes lead to PID, which is an infection in the fallopian tubes and uterus that could increase the risk of infertility.
Sex with BV: Is It Safe?
When you have BV, penetration can be uncomfortable. Sex may also worsen vaginal odor symptoms, so you may want to avoid vaginal intercourse until your bacterial flora gets back to normal. Keep in mind that while BV usually can’t be transmitted to someone who has a penis, it can be transmitted to someone who has a vagina through the used of shared toys, digital penetration, or direct contact with their vulva. If you find out you have BV, you may want to inform sexual partners who have a vagina so they can watch for symptoms or make an appointment with their doctor to check for any issues.
Can You Prevent BV?
Bacterial vaginosis can’t be fully prevented, but there are certain things that help to minimize your risk:
- Use protection. When you have sex, use condoms and/or dental dams. This helps to prevent disruptions to your vagina’s bacterial flora.
- Don’t douche. Do not use any kind of douching or vaginal cleansing agents. You should also avoid using any scented products, such as soaps, on your vulva. Any of these products could upset the balance of bacteria in your vagina.
Bacterial Vaginosis Recurrence
Some people who get BV find that it recurs again within3 to12 months, even with treatment. This is fairly common, but if you have problems with recurring bacterial vaginosis, talk to your doctor. In some cases, an extended-use antibiotic can be prescribed for this issue, or you may benefit from probiotic therapy.
Key Takeaways About BV
Bacterial vaginosis occurs when the balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted. It’s very common and sometimes will clear up naturally, though prescription antibiotics can be used to treat it. If you notice symptoms of BV, you should see a healthcare provider.
