Bacterial vaginosis
What is it?
Bacterial vaginosis is not a sexually transmitted infection but occurs when there is an overgrowth of the normal bugs (bacteria) in the vagina. It is not something you 'catch', but does occur in women who have sex. Some factors believed to increase the chance of getting bacterial vaginosis include a recent change in sexual partner and vaginal douching.
What are the symptoms?
Sometimes there are symptoms such as an unusual discharge or an unpleasant odour. These symptoms are often more obvious after sex, especially the odour, or during periods. Often there are no symptoms at all.
How is it transmitted?
Bacterial vaginosis is not sexually transmitted. Women who have recurrent bacterial vaginosis may want to consider getting their male partners to use condoms for a few months to reduce the possibility of semen causing acid imbalance in the vagina.
How can I prevent transmission?
Bacterial vaginosis is not sexually transmitted.
Women with bacterial vaginosis are advised to:
* avoid douching
* avoid perfumed oils, soaps, gels and creams
* use a condom
* change pads or tampons regularly.
How is it diagnosed?
Bacterial vaginosis is usually found by taking a swab (long cotton bud) from the vagina and testing it in a laboratory.
How is it treated?
Bacterial vaginosis can be effectively treated by taking a course of antibiotics or by applying a cream. It is important to finish the course of antibiotics. If there are no symptoms or the symptoms are not causing problems then treatment is not necessary.