Bacterial vaginosis - meaning and definition
AlsoBVvaginosisbacterial vaginitis
Not yet reviewed by a clinician. This health entry was written from the public-health sources listed below and is general information only. It is not medical advice.
Definition
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common condition in which the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina shifts, often causing thin grey-white discharge with a fishy smell.
At a glance
- BV happens when the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina shifts.
- A typical sign is thin grey-white discharge with a fishy smell, but around half of people have no symptoms.
- It is not usually classed as an STI, though it is more common in people who are sexually active.
- Douching and scented washes can make it more likely.
- It is easily treated with antibiotics but often comes back.
In detail
BV is not usually classed as a sexually transmitted infection, but it is more common in people who are sexually active, and new partners, partners with a vulva, douching and scented washes can all make it more likely. Around half of people with BV have no symptoms at all.
BV is easily treated with antibiotic tablets, gels or creams, although it often comes back. Untreated BV can raise the risk of acquiring some STIs and may cause complications in pregnancy, so it is worth getting symptoms checked.
In a sentence
- The clinic confirmed it was bacterial vaginosis, not an STI, and gave her a gel to use.
- She stopped using scented shower gel after her second bout of BV.
Where the word comes from
The name bacterial vaginosis came into use in the 1980s. The ending -osis was chosen instead of -itis because the condition usually causes little inflammation.
Not to be confused with
- Thrush
Thrush is a yeast infection that usually causes itching and thick white discharge without a strong smell.
Common questions
Is bacterial vaginosis an STI?
It is not usually classed as a sexually transmitted infection, but it is more common in people who are sexually active, and new partners can make it more likely. Untreated BV can raise the risk of acquiring some STIs, so testing at a sexual health clinic is a good idea.
Why does BV keep coming back?
BV often recurs even after successful treatment. Avoiding douching and scented products may help. If it keeps returning, or if you are pregnant, a doctor or sexual health clinic can discuss further options.
Related terms
Sources
- NHSBacterial vaginosis
- Planned ParenthoodVaginitis