Bacterial Vaginosis

About Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common cause of unusual vaginal discharge.

It's caused by a change in the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina. BV is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI), however it can increase your risk of getting an STI, such as chlamydia.

Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis

Some women with bacterial vaginosis have no noticeable symptoms.

If you do have symptoms, you may notice a change in your usual vaginal discharge.

Common symptoms include:

thin or watery discharge
white or grey coloured discharge
a strong, or unpleasant smell

The smell may be stronger:

during and after sex
during your period

BV doesn’t usually cause itching or irritation.

Learn more about vaginal discharge on NHS.

What to do if you think you may have Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial Vaginosis isn’t usually serious however you may need antibiotics.

If you’re pregnant, get medical advice as soon as possible, as there’s a small chance it can cause pregnancy complications.

If you think you may have Bacterial Vaginosis:

speak to a pharmacist about over-the-counter treatments available
contact your GP or book an appointment at the sexual health clinic (GUM)
check your toiletries or products you use, as some can trigger symptoms

List of surgeries and GPs in Jersey

How Bacterial Vaginosis is diagnosed

A GP or other medical professional may:

offer treatment based on your symptoms
diagnose BV by examining the discharge
examine your vagina
take a swab sample of your discharge from your vagina

The swab looks like a cotton bud. The test is quick and not painful. However, it may feel slightly uncomfortable.

You may need a test if you:

have frequent episodes of discharge
may be at risk of an STI

Treatment for Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is usually treated with antibiotics prescribed by a doctor or nurse. You may be given:

an antibiotic cream or gel to use in your vagina
antibiotic tablets to take by mouth

Tell the doctor or nurse if you:

are pregnant
think you might be pregnant
are breastfeeding

These may affect the type of treatment you’re given.

You can still have sex while being treated for bacterial vaginosis. However, antibiotics and creams can impact the effectiveness of condoms and other forms of contraception. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Partners don’t usually need treatment.

You may also be able to buy non-antibiotic treatments from a pharmacy.

Causes of Bacterial Vaginosis

The vagina naturally contains beneficial bacteria called lactobacilli.

These help prevent harmful bacteria from growing (infection).

BV occurs when this natural balance is changed.

BV isn’t considered a sexually transmitted infection, but certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing it, including if you:

are sexually active
had a change of sexual partner
have more than one sexual partner
have an intrauterine device (IUD)
used perfumed or scented products in or around your vagina, such as soaps or bubble bath

Other things that may increase the risk of getting it include:

smoking
putting antiseptic liquids in the bath
douching, which is washing or cleaning inside the vagina
using vaginal washes or deodorant
using strong detergents for underwear
receiving oral sex

Having BV can make easier to get an STI because it makes your vagina less acidic and reduces your natural defences against infection.

How to reduce your risk

You may not be able prevent BV completely.

You can try to reduce your risk of developing it by:

washing the genital area with water or mild, unscented products
avoiding scented or harsh products in the genital area