WHAT IS BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS? WHAT ARE THE THINGS THAT WOMEN SHOULD KNOW?

ichhori team

Bacterial vaginosis is the most common vaginal infection among women of reproductive age. It occurs when the natural balance of vaginal bacteria—mainly Lactobacilli—is disrupted, allowing harmful anaerobic bacteria like Gardnerella vaginalis to overgrow.

Symptoms

  • Thin, white, gray, or greenish vaginal discharge
  • A strong “fishy” odor, often noticeable after sex
  • Mild itching or burning, especially during urination
  • Often no symptoms at all—in about half of cases :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Risk Factors

  • Douching or using scented products around the vagina
  • Changing or having multiple sexual partners
  • Using an intrauterine device (IUD)
  • Smoking or vaping :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves:

  • A pelvic exam and medical history review
  • Microscopic evaluation of vaginal discharge to look for “clue cells”
  • Vaginal pH testing and a "whiff" test for odor detection :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Treatment

  • First-line treatment with antibiotics such as metronidazole or clindamycin (oral or vaginal forms)
  • Complete the full course—even if symptoms improve quickly
  • Discuss longer treatment or alternative antibiotics if BV recurs or does not respond :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Recurrence & Prevention

  • Recurrence is common—up to 50% or more experience repeat episodes :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
  • Effective prevention strategies include:
    • Avoid douching and scented products
    • Use condoms and limit number of sexual partners
    • Wear breathable cotton underwear
    • Consider probiotic use, particularly containing Lactobacilli—but consult a healthcare provider first :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
  • Emerging research shows that treating male partners in monogamous heterosexual couples may reduce recurrence rates significantly (35% recurred vs. 63%) :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Complications

  • Increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which may affect fertility
  • Pregnancy-related risks like preterm birth, miscarriage, and low birth weight if left untreated :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

When to See a Doctor

  • If you notice unusual discharge, odor, itching, or burning
  • If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
  • If symptoms persist or return after treatment

Bacterial vaginosis is treatable and preventable with proper medical care and healthy habits. If symptoms arise, it’s important to seek medical attention for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
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