Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis, also called BV is the most common vaginal infection in women of childbearing age. It happens when the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted and replaced by an overgrowth of certain bacteria. The vagina normally contains mostly good bacteria, and fewer harmful bacteria. BV develops when there is an increase in harmful bacteria and fewer good bacteria. Bacterial
Vaginosis Symptoms Women with BV may have an abnormal vaginal
discharge with an unpleasant odor. Some women report a strong fish-like odor,
especially after sexual intercourse. The discharge can be white, milky, or gray
and thin. Other symptoms may include burning when urinating, itching around the
outside of the vagina, and irritation. However, these could be symptoms of
another infection too. Some women with bacterial vaginosis have no symptoms at
all. Bacterial vaginosis doesn't cause any problems. But some problems can happen if bacterial vaginosis is untreated.
- Pregnancy problems. BV can cause premature delivery and low birth weight babies (less than five pounds).
- PID. Pelvic inflammatory disease or PID is an infection that can affect a woman's uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, which carry eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. Having BV increases the risk of getting PID after a surgical procedure, such as a hysterectomy or an abortion.
- Higher risk of getting other STDs. Having BV can increase the chances of getting other STDs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV. Women with HIV who get BV increase the chances of passing HIV to a sexual partner.
You want to consult your doctor if you have completed a course of over-the-counter anti-yeast medication and your symptoms persist, you have a fever or you have a particularly unpleasant vaginal odor.
Bacterial Vaginosis Symptoms to B
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