Bacterial Vaginosis: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment
By Diana Rodriguez | Medically reviewed by Lindsey Marcellin, MD, MPH 42sharesBacterial vaginosis is the most common type of vaginal infection in American women, and it's startlingly prevalent in pregnant women. Sixteen percent of expectant mothers in the United States have bacterial vaginosis.Causes of Bacterial VaginosisBacteria naturally occur in the vagina, but there are both good and bad types. There is a careful balance between the good and bad bacteria that live in the vagina, and when that balance is disrupted, bacterial vaginosis can occur."">Related: How to Have a Healthy Vagina What causes this bacterial imbalance isn't exactly known, but there seems to be some evidence that it can be a sexually transmitted disease. "We know that women who have multiple sexual partners or women who have a new sexual partner are at a higher risk of getting bacterial vaginosis,” says Jennifer A. Shuford, MD, MPH, director of applied science at the Medical Institute for Sexual Health in Austin, Tex. " Male sexual partners of these women carry these bacteria in the penis, so there is evidence of sexual exchange."But, says Dr. Shuford, sexual contact is not the only method of infection. "Women who have had no sexual contact their whole lives can still get bacterial vaginosis."Symptoms of Bacterial VaginosisSome women have bacterial vaginosis and don't have any symptoms. But when symptoms do appear, they may include:Vaginal discharge that may be white or gray in colorDischarge with a strong, foul odorVaginal odor that is particularly strong, with a fishy smell after sexVaginal itchinessPainful or burning urinationBacterial Vaginosis Risk Factors and ComplicationsHaving sex with someone who has bacterial vaginosis, as well as having multiple sex partners or new sex partners, can put you at risk for the infection, says Shuford.Douching can also increase the risk, as it disrupts the balance of bacteria in the vagina."">Related: Help for Vaginal Dryness The complications and health risks of bacterial vaginosis can be serious if the infection isn't treated. Untreated vaginosis can lead to:Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID is an inflammation of the female reproductive system, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and even the ovaries. Shuford notes that PID can lead to a number of complications, including infertility and ectopic pregnancy.Pregnancy complications. Pregnant women with bacterial vaginosis may be at a higher risk for having low birth-weight babies, says Shuford, as well as premature rupture of the membranes (your water breaks too early).Greater risk of other sexually transmitted infection. Women who have bacterial vaginosis are at greater risk of getting HIV, gonorrhea, and chlamydia.Increased risk of infection. Women who have bacterial vaginosis may be more likely to develop an infection after surgeries affecting the reproductive system, such as a hysterectomy or abortion.Bacterial Vaginosis: Screening, Treatment, and PreventionBacterial vaginosis is easily diagnosed using a sample of vaginal fluid, and is treated with a simple round of antibiotics. Antibiotics may be given orally, or in the form of a topical cream or ointment inserted in the vagina, notes Shuford.Bacterial vaginosis can recur, even after antibiotic treatment. It’s important to make sure you take all of the antibiotics as prescribed. And while it can't always be prevented, you can reduce your risk of bacterial vaginosis and of spreading the infection by being in a monogamous relationship, as well as by using condoms. Avoid douching to help keep bacteria balanced in the vagina and reduce the risk of bacterial vaginosis.Good hygiene can help prevent bacterial vaginosis. Wash the anus and vagina every day, and wip from front to back after urination or defecation. Wear cotton underwear and pants that fit loosely in the crotch to allow air flow and prevent moist conditions that can encourage infection."">Bacterial vaginosis is a very common infection, but some simple preventive steps can help reduce your risk. And women who do experience symptoms should remember to seek treatment right away to prevent unnecessary health problems caused by untreated bacterial vaginosis.
