Last updated: 19-10-2022
The female reproductive system is delicate. Without care and attention, problems can arise. These may be hard to spot, so they can take a long time to treat. Knowing how common infections and other issues look and feel can save you a lot of time.
One of the most common vaginal infections is bacterial vaginosis, or BV. But what is it, and how do you identify it?
What is BV?
BV is caused by bacteria. The main symptom is a change in the discharge (fluid) from the vagina. Discharge is normal for reproductive-age women (women who have not gone through menopause yet), but BV can change its colour and smell.
If you have ever heard of someone having a ‘fishy’ smell coming from their vagina, they may have had BV. Sometimes, it can also cause vaginal irritation. But in most cases, there are few or no symptoms.
Is BV common?
BV is the most common vaginal problem for women aged 15 to 44. Experts think about one in three women get it at some point. Black women are much more likely to get BV.
Who can get BV?
Anyone with a vagina can get BV, even if they have never had sex. But usually, it occurs in sexually active people. You may have a higher risk of BV if you:
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Are pregnant
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Do not use condoms during sex
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Do not use dental dams
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Have an intrauterine device (IUD)
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Have multiple sex partners (or your partner does)
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Have a new sex partner who did not get tested
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Have a sex partner with a vagina
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Regularly use douches
What are the symptoms of BV?
More than 84% of people with BV do not have symptoms. If they do, these may include:
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Off-white, grey or greenish vaginal discharge
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Discharge that smells ‘fishy’, especially after sex or during a period
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An itchy or sore vagina (this is very rare)
Doctors often miss BV because it has similar symptoms to other infections. You should visit your GP regularly for tests and if you have any symptoms. That way, you can be sure.
What causes BV?
The vagina, like the gut, is home to many types of bacteria. BV occurs when the ‘bad’ bacteria grow too quickly compared to the rest. This puts the vagina out of balance.
Is BV an STD?
BV is not transmitted through sex, but it is linked with it. Many experts think that sex changes the bacterial environment in the vagina. This explains why some bacteria grow too fast. But we need more evidence to be sure.
Can BV go away on its own?
BV can go away without treatment or medicine. Still, if you have symptoms, you should consult a doctor. Untreated BV can lead to complications such as:
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Infections after operations like hysterectomies
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A higher risk of STDs, especially HIV
What are the treatment options for BV?
BV is easy to treat, often going away in just a few days with medicine. Your GP will prescribe antibiotics, usually metronidazole or clindamycin. These come as gels or creams that you put directly into your vagina. You can also get them as pills to swallow.
The bottom line
Bacterial vaginosis is not serious on its own, but without treatment, it can lead to complications. It is important to have regular checkups and get pap smears every six months to make sure everything is OK.