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Non-Sexually Transmitted Infections
Bacterial Vaginosis
- This is not a sexually transmitted infection.
- It only affects women.
- It is often known as BV.
- It is very common.
What are the symptoms?
Women complain of an increase in vaginal discharge, which can smell unpleasant. It is often more obvious after sex.
What causes Bacterial Vaginosis?
Bacterial Vaginosis is not an infection and it cannot be passed to sexual partners. It is an imbalance in the levels of bacteria within the vagina. The vagina normally has high levels of lactobacilli organisms and low numbers of anaerobic organisms. If for some reason the levels of lactobacilli become low the anaerobic organisms will grow up to take their place.
Many women will have occasions when they have high levels of anaerobic organisms but usually the imbalance will correct itself.
Smokers, users of contraceptive coils (IUD or IUS) and lesbian women are more likely to suffer from troublesome Bacterial Vaginosis.
What is the test for bacterial vaginosis?
The best test for Bacterial Vaginosis is for a sample of vaginal secretions to be examined under the microscope in a GUM clinic. You can also be tested at the Family Planning clinic or at your GP practice, when a swab is taken from the vagina. This test is not always as accurate.
What is the treatment?
As Bacterial Vaginosis is not an infection it is not essential, in most cases, to treat the condition. Many women will clear the anaerobic organisms without any antibiotic treatment.
However if you are due to have a coil fitted, or are going to have a gynaecological operation, it is sensible to treat Bacterial Vaginosis first. Pregnant women with Bacterial Vaginosis are also offered treatment.
Treatment is with an antibiotic which will clear the anaerobic organisms for a period of time. The antibiotic can be taken by mouth or put inside the vagina as a cream.
Though antibiotics work in the short term Bacterial Vaginosis can come back.
It is also very important that you are not using perfumed washing products in the bath or shower, as these products can affect the healthy organisms in the vagina. (See section above on genital skin problems for further advice in this area)
Some people have found that taking yogurt drinks containing live Lactobacilli organisms eg. Actimel will reduce the number of times that they have problems with Bacterial Vaginosis.
Others have found homeopathic treatments very helpful.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THESE NON-SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS PLEASE CONTACT THE HEALTH ADVISORS AT GUM NINEWELLS ON 01382 632 600.
NHS Tayside
