What is BV?
BV is the most common cause of abnormal discharge from the vagina. The normal vagina contains a mixture of bacteria which help to keep the vagina healthy. BV is an overgrowth of some of the bacteria (called anaerobes) resulting in an overall imbalance of the bacteria.
BV is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
How common is BV?
BV is common, about one in 10 women will get BV at some point in their life. It is common in pregnant women.
How do I get BV?
Any woman can get BV at any time, even if they are not sexually active.
The vagina normally contains mostly 'good' bacteria (called lactobacilli), which help to cleanse the vagina, and fewer 'bad' bacteria (called anaerobes).
BV develops when there is an increase in the number of 'bad' bacteria. This changes the chemistry of the vaginal fluid. Although it is not fully understand why some women get BV and others don't, certain activities can upset the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina and increase the risk of getting BV.
These include:
- having a new sex partner
- smoking
- douching (rinsing inside the vagina) or using vaginal washes or deodorants
- having oral sex
- having sex with multiple partners
You cannot catch BV from:
- toilet seats
- swimming pools or jacuzzis
What symptoms would I have with BV?
If you have BV, as well as an abnormal discharge from the vagina, common symptoms include an abnormal smell from the vagina, like a ‘fishy’ smell, or a discharge from the vagina which can be grey, pale and thin. Sometimes the ‘fishy’ smell is worse after sex.
BV does not cause itch, soreness or irritation.
How can I be tested?
BV can be diagnosed based on the symptoms you describe and some simple tests on the vaginal discharge. This can be explained to you by the healthcare provider who sees you when you attend the clinic.
How is BV treated?
BV is treated with antibiotics. It sometimes comes back and may need to be treated again.
What about my partner?
Your sexual partner(s) do not need to be tested or treated for BV unless they have symptoms.
When can I have sex again?
BV is not sexually transmitted, so you do not need to avoid sex. However, some women find their symptoms clear up more quickly if they avoid sex.
What happens if my BV is left untreated?
For most women there are no complications from BV. It often clears up without treatment but if it persists you should visit a healthcare professional.
How can I prevent against getting BV again?
The best ways of preventing BV are not known but avoiding anything that upsets the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina may help.
For example, don't:
- douche (rinse inside your vagina)
- overwashing the genital area
- use perfumed soaps or products, bubble baths, antiseptic solutions, tee tree oil, baby wipes or feminine wipes or washes
BV in pregnancy
If you are pregnant and found to have BV that is bothering you, your doctor or nurse will speak to you about safe treatment. Treatment can be given even in the first trimester (the first 12 weeks).
In women who have had a miscarriage, premature or low birth weight baby, there is some evidence to suggest that BV may increase the risk of premature delivery in a subsequent pregnancy. For these women treatment is usually advised in pregnancy (preferably before 20 weeks).
Download the Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) leaflet here.
