Bacterial Vaginosis

Ask the Midwife Bacterial VaginosisWhat is BV?Bacterial vaginosis (BV) happens when the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina changes.Normally, protective bacteria help keep the vagina healthy.With BV, there are fewer protective bacteria and more of other types of bacteria.BV is very common.BV is not considered a sexually transmitted infection, or STI.However, sexual activity can increase your chances of getting BV.Bacteria that cause BV may be shared between sexual partners.BV may also be more likely after sex with a new partner, with multiple partners, or after sex without a condom.BV can also occur in people who are not sexually active, so sexual activity is not the only cause.How do I know if I have BV?Many people with BV do not have any symptoms.If you do have symptoms, you may notice: • More vaginal discharge than usual • Thin, white, or gray vaginal discharge • A strong or "fishy" vaginal odor, which may be more noticeable after sex • Burning or itching in or around the vagina • Burning when you urinate Your health care provider may examine you and take a sample of vaginal discharge to test for BV.Your provider may also test you for other infections because some infections can cause similar symptoms.You may be tested for trichomoniasis, chlamydia, or gonorrhea.American College of Nurse-Midwives askthemidwife.jmwh.orgsymptoms go away.Avoid having vaginal sex until you finish the medicine.The medicines that go in your vagina can cause latex condoms and diaphragms to get holes in them.That makes it easier for you to get pregnant or get a sexually transmitted infection (STI) if you have sex. Does my partner need treatment?Treating sexual partners may help prevent BV from coming back for some people.If you have BV that keeps coming back, treatment of your sexual partner may be considered.Talk with your health care provider about whether your partner should be evaluated and treated. How does BV affect my baby and me if I am pregnant?Having BV during pregnancy may increase the chance of preterm labor and preterm birth, which means going into labor or having your baby too early.BV has also been linked to having a baby with a low birth weight.If you are pregnant and have unusual vaginal discharge, vaginal odor, or other concerns, contact your health care provider.If you have symptoms of BV while you are pregnant, treatment is recommended.The antibiotics are safe for you and your baby during pregnancy. Does having BV cause other health problems?Having BV may increase your chance of getting some sexually transmitted infections (STIs).This includes:• Gonorrhea or chlamydia if you are exposed to these infections during sex.• HIV if you are exposed to HIV during sex.If you have BV, talk with your health care provider about whether you should be tested for STIs.When should I see a health care provider?You should call your health care provider if you have unusual vaginal discharge, a strong vaginal odor, itching, burning, or other changes that concern you.BV and other vaginal infections can have similar symptoms, but they may need different treatments.For More Information Healthy Women http://www.healthywomen.org/condition/bacterial-vaginosisFlesch-Kincaid Grade Level: 7.0