What is bacterial vaginosis (BV)?

Bacterial vaginosis is an infection from the overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. A healthy vagina holds bacteria. These bacteria usually check and balance one another. However, sometimes harmful bacteria multiply significantly and overpower good bacteria. In doing so, they disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina and trigger bacterial vaginosis.

BV can make your vaginal discharge have a "fishy" odor. In some individuals, it irritates the vagina. In other cases, individuals may not present with any symptoms of BV.

Who is at risk for bacterial vaginosis (BV)?

Anyone with a vagina can get bacterial vaginosis (BV). It commonly occurs in sexually active individuals, and it is rare in those who have never had sex. Some people may naturally produce an excess of the bacteria that causes BV.

You may be at a higher risk of developing BV if you:

• Are pregnant
• Do not use condoms or dental dams
• Have an intrauterine device (IUD)
• Have multiple sexual partners
• Have a new sexual partner
• Have a sexual partner who is assigned female at birth (AFAB)
• Douching.
• Are receiving antibiotics.

What are the signs of bacterial vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis has no symptoms in 84% of cases. When present, signs include:

• Grayish or off-white vaginal discharge.
• Vaginal discharge that has a strong, fishy odor, particularly after sexual intercourse.
• Irritation or itching in the vagina.
• Burning feeling when urinating.
• Signs of bacterial vaginosis are like those of other infections. The only way to know for sure is to visit a healthcare provider.

How do you get bacterial vaginosis (BV)?

Your vagina contains various types of bacteria (referred to as a microbiome). A change in the balance of the bacteria leads to BV.

More precisely, bacterial vaginosis occurs when "bad" bacteria (anaerobes) multiply more rapidly than "good" bacteria (lactobacilli). An overgrowth of one type of bacteria causes an imbalance.

Researchers understand that any alteration in the natural chemistry of your vagina can impact the bacteria present there. This is why activities like douching or unprotected sex can cause bacterial vaginosis (BV). You cannot get BV from hot tubs, swimming pools, or toilet seats. Touching a surface that someone with BV has touched will not give you BV either.

Is bacterial vaginosis contagious?

Bacterial vaginosis is not contagious, but sexual activity may increase your risk of developing the infection.

Is bacterial vaginosis an STD or STI?

Bacterial vaginosis is not sexually transmitted, but it is associated with sexual activity. Researchers believe that sexual activity may alter the bacterial environment in the vagina, increasing the likelihood of bacterial overgrowth.

What’s the difference between bacterial vaginosis and a yeast infection?

Both bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections are types of vaginal infections that can increase the amount of vaginal discharge. Here’s how to differentiate between the two:

• Discharge: The key sign of bacterial vaginosis is discharge that has a "fishy" odor. In contrast, discharge from a yeast infection typically does not have a strong smell but may resemble cottage cheese in texture.
• Vaginal irritation: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) usually does not lead to vaginal irritation or itching, whereas yeast infections do.
• Over-the-counter treatment: You can self-medicate a yeast infection using OTC medication. You would have to consult with a health provider to receive antibiotics for BV.

How do you know if you have BV?

Only a healthcare provider can diagnose bacterial vaginosis (BV). If you notice signs of BV, be sure to contact your provider for an appointment. During your visit, your provider will ask about your medical history, including any past vaginal infections or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They may also:

• Perform a pelvic exam: Your healthcare provider will place gloved fingers inside your vagina to examine for infection such as increased or foul smelling with a white or gray color of the discharge.
• Take a sample of vaginal discharge: Your provider will put a speculum into your vagina. Then, using a swab, they'll collect a sample of fluid from your vagina. The fluid is sent to the lab to find out what bacteria are present.
• Tests for bacterial vaginosis utilize fluid samples from the vagina: These samples can undergo various tests to diagnose bacterial vaginosis, with the most common ones including:
  • Wet mount: You view your vaginal discharge under a microscope on a glass slide.
  • Whiff test: Your healthcare provider will check your vaginal discharge for a fishy smell.
  • Vaginal pH: This measures the degree of acidity in your discharge. The higher your pH, the more likely you are to have BV.

How do I get rid of BV?

You will be given a prescription for an antibiotic like metronidazole or clindamycin. This is available as a gel or cream you insert into your vagina, or it is a pill you take orally (by swallowing).

Be sure to complete your antibiotic and take it as directed by your provider. Quitting early because your symptoms have resolved places you at risk for recurrence of BV.

Can bacterial vaginosis resolve spontaneously?

Some cases of bacterial vaginosis (BV) can clear up on their own without treatment. However, if you have symptoms, it's important to see a doctor. Having BV can increase your risk of sexually transmitted infections and may affect pregnancy.

Is there a home remedy for bacterial vaginosis?

There are no over-the-counter products for treating bacterial vaginosis. Avoid using douches or products designed to treat yeast infections, which could exacerbate the BV. Consult a healthcare provider for treatment.

How long does bacterial vaginosis last?

In most cases, one round of antibiotics- taken for up to seven days-will cure the infection. Approximately 10% to 15% of patients require additional rounds of treatment.

How can I reduce my risk of BV?

You cannot prevent bacterial vaginosis. But these steps might help you reduce your risk:

Avoid douching: Using certain products can upset the balance of bacteria in your vagina. Instead, focus on health care for your vagina and vulva.

Avoid contact between your vagina and anything that has touched your anus. Items such as toilet paper and sex toys can transfer bacteria from your stool to your vagina. Sexual toys should be cleaned after each use.

Reduce the number of sex partners. Studies have shown that you are more likely to contract BV if you have several sex partners.

Use latex condoms or dental dams. For unknown reasons, researchers believe that sexual activity is linked with BV.

Wear cotton or cotton-lined underwear. Bacteria thrive in damp conditions. Cotton will wick moisture away.

Do you get bacterial vaginosis repeatedly?

Yes. In fact, up to 80% of women have bacterial vaginosis recurrence during their lifetime.

What are the complications of bacterial vaginosis?

BV doesn't commonly cause serious problems. However, if it is not treated it could result in:

• Complications of pregnancy: Pregnant women with BV risk having preterm deliveries
• STIs: Bacterial vaginosis exposes you to some other STIs such as, chlamydia and gonorrhea. If you have an HIV infection and still acquire BV infection, you face the risk of transmission to your spouse
• PID: Bacterial vaginosis has the risk to cause the pelvic inflammatory diseases, spreading infections all along the system in your reproduction organs. And when it stays for a more extended period, difficulties arise on conception.

If  pregnant, should I be treated for bacterial vaginosis?

If you have bacterial vaginosis (BV), talk to your doctor about safe medication options for pregnancy. It's important to treat BV whether you have symptoms. If left untreated, BV can lead to problems during pregnancy, such as premature birth or having a baby with low birth weight.

Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Bacterial Vaginosis treatment in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital offers advanced Bacterial Vaginosis treatment in Lucknow, India, at an affordable cost. We have a team of experienced gynecologists, known as some of the best doctors for women’s intimate health care. We provide accurate diagnosis through clinical evaluation and lab tests, personalized medical treatment, and complete guidance to prevent recurrence. Our Gynecology team has decades of experience in successfully treating Bacterial Vaginosis in Lucknow, India.

To seek an Expert Consultation for Bacterial Vaginosis treatment in Lucknow, India:

Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com

Request a Call Back