What is bacterial vaginosis?
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a condition that happens when there is too much of certain bacteria in the vagina. This changes the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina.
Signs and Symptoms
- Some women have no symptoms
- Strong “fishy” vaginal odor, especially after sex
- Abnormal vaginal discharge – white or grey, watery or foamy
- Pain during urination
- Vaginal itching
Transmission
It is unclear what causes the imbalance in vaginal bacteria that leads to BV. However, some behaviors can increase a woman’s risk of BV:
- Having a new sex partner
- Having multiple sex partners
- Douching
Complications
- In pregnant women, having BV can increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight.
- Having BV makes it easier to transmit or acquire HIV during sex.
Prevention
- Avoiding vaginal sex may reduce a woman’s risk of getting BV.
- Limit the number of sex partners.
- To maintain “healthy” vaginal bacteria, do not douche.
Testing and Treatment
- Get a test from a medical provider if infection is suspected.
- BV can be cured using medication prescribed by a medical provider.
- Male sex partners do not need to be treated at the same time.
NOTE: BV can recur after treatment.
Prevention
Avoiding vaginal, oral, or anal sex is the best way to prevent STDs.
- Latex condoms, when used consistently and correctly, can reduce the risk of genital herpes only when the infected areas are covered or protected by the condom.
- Always use latex condoms during vaginal and anal sex.
- Use a latex condom for oral sex on a penis.
- Use a latex barrier (dental dam or condom cut in half) for oral sex on a vagina or anus.
- Limit the number of sex partners.
- Notify sex partners immediately if infected.
- When pregnant, inform the doctor if you were previously infected with herpes.
- Never have sex with someone who has genital herpes when sores are present.
Testing and Treatment
- Get a test from a medical provider if infection is suspected.
- No cure is available; infection persists for life.
- Recurrent episodes of blisters can be decreased by taking an antiviral medication each day.
- Treatment of recurrent episodes generally shortens the length of outbreaks.
- Comfort measures are available for recurrent episodes.
Contact Information
STD Prevention
4815 W. Markham St., Slot 33
Little Rock, AR 72205
Phone: 501-661-2408
Fax: 501-661-2082
[email protected]