Bacterial vaginosis, also known as BV, is exactly what it sounds like, a bacterial infection of the vagina. It is the most common cause of vaginitis. The vagina is home to micro-organisms called lactobacillus (good bacteria) that help protect it from infection by producing an acid-based environment where most other bacteria and micro-organisms can not survive. If the pH level in the vagina changes, some of the other unhealthy bacteria can multiply and the result is a vaginal infection.

Although some women do not experience any symptoms, others may find they have a grayish or yellowish discharge that may have a “fishy” smell, itchiness, soreness, or swelling around the vagina, vulva or anus. They may also experience pain during intercourse or a burning sensation upon urination.

It is important that if any of these symptoms are present that you seek medical attention to determine what is causing them. Some of these symptoms can present themselves and not be caused by bacterial vaginosis as yeast infections and trichomonas vaginalis share similar symptoms although they are not caused by bacteria.

Testing can determine what type of infection you have so that treatment options can be explored and implemented as soon as possible to prevent the infection from spreading or causing possible organ damage or scarring. Even though bacterial vaginosis is not considered a sexually transmitted disease, it is advisable that once the cause of the infection is determined, sexual partners be informed so that they can be screened if deemed necessary by the doctor, and be made aware of what symptoms to watch for that might affect their health.

Vaginal infections in most cases are not life threatening if treated as soon as possible. However, if left untreated complications can arise such as pelvic inflammatory disease and the susceptibility to sexually transmitted diseases including HIV may be increased.

Pregnant women in particular should be tested and treated immediately as some serious complications such as miscarriage, preterm delivery, or pelvic infection after childbirth. Bacterial vaginosis is usually treated with a course of antibiotics and may also include a supplement of lactobacillus acidophilus to help the vagina regain a balance in its pH level. It is always important to have any unusual symptoms checked by a physician so that a treatment plan can be started to prevent any worsening of symptoms and to avoid any complications from developing.

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