Bacterial Vaginosis (Vaginosis)
Bacterial vaginosis (BV), previously called nonspecific vaginitis or Gardnerella-assocated vaginitis, is a sign of a change in the growth of vaginal bacteria. Health experts are not sure what role sexual activity plays in developing BV.
Part of: Vaginitis
About Bacterial Vaginosis
In bacterial vaginosis (sometime abbreviated as BV) much larger numbers of bacteria grow inside of the vagina than would normally just be there.
This increase in bacteria is usually not dangerous and it often goes unnoticed, but it can cause a strong-smelling vaginal discharge and be very unpleasant. It also increases the risk of a vaginal infection. Antibiotics can provide effective treatment.
Symptoms
At least half of the women who develop bacterial vaginosis do not have any noticeable symptoms.
When the condition is detected, it is usually by a very unpleasant, thin, grayish-white vaginal discharge that smells strongly of fish. This smell is often stronger after sexual intercourse or during menstruation… Read more about Bacterial Vaginosis