Bacterial Vaginosis
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
AMBULATORY CARE:
Bacterial vaginosis
(BV) is an infection in the vagina. It may cause vaginitis (irritation and inflammation of the vagina). The cause is not known. Bacteria normally found in the vagina are imbalanced. Your risk increases if you are sexually active, you use a douche, or you have an intrauterine device (IUD).
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Common signs and symptoms:
BV does not always cause symptoms. You may have any of the following:
- White, gray, or yellow vaginal discharge
- Vaginal discharge that smells like fish
- Itching or burning around the outside of your vagina
Call your doctor or gynecologist if:
- Your symptoms come back or do not improve with treatment.
- You have vaginal bleeding that is not your monthly period.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Treatment
may not be needed if you have no symptoms. A BV infection that does not cause symptoms usually goes away on its own. You may be given antibiotics to treat the infection. They may be given as a pill or as a cream to put in your vagina.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
BV and pregnancy:
If you have BV during pregnancy, your baby may be born early or have a low birth weight. Your healthcare provider may recommend testing for BV before or during your pregnancy. Your provider will talk to you about your risk for premature delivery, and make sure you know the benefits and risks of testing.
Prevent BV:
- Keep your vaginal area clean and dry. Wear underwear and pantyhose with a cotton crotch. Wipe from front to back after you urinate or have a bowel movement. After you bathe, rinse soap from your vaginal area to decrease your risk for irritation. Change tampons, pads, or panty liners often throughout the day.
- Do not use products that cause irritation. Always use unscented tampons or sanitary pads. Do not use feminine sprays, powders, or scented tampons. They may cause irritation and increase your risk for vaginosis. Detergents and fabric softeners may also cause irritation.
- Do not use a douche. This can cause an imbalance in healthy vaginal bacteria.
- Use latex condoms during sex. This helps prevent another infection and keeps your partner from getting the infection.
- Limit your number of sex partners. This will help lower your risk for another BV infection or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Follow up with your doctor or gynecologist as directed:
BV increases the risk for several health problems, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or STIs. Work with your healthcare providers to schedule regular appointments to check for health problems. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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