Understanding Bacterial Vaginosis: Why It Happens and How to Prevent It

Bacterial vaginosis is a globally occurring infection affecting women of reproductive age. It causes vaginal itching, unusual discharge, and a fishy odour from the vagina. It happens due to an imbalance of vaginal bacteria. Although common, BV for a prolonged period can lead to certain complications.

This article aims to explain what bacterial vaginosis is, its causes and symptoms, and tips to help prevent it.

What Is Bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis is a common vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth or imbalance of BV bacteria, or “bad” bacteria, in the vagina. It leads to unusual discharge and itching in the vagina.

The exact reason for the imbalance of vaginal bacteria is still unknown, but it is prevalent among women in their reproductive ages, especially those who are sexually active. The risk of acquiring bacterial vaginosis increases for those who:

1. Are pregnant
2. Have multiple sex partners
3. Don’t use condoms or dental dams
4. Use douches

What is the Cause for Bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis is caused when the vagina flora is disrupted by BV bacteria or the “bad” bacteria. The vagina flora mostly consists of Lactobacillus that produces lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide, creating an environment that makes it difficult for unhealthy bacteria to survive.

Bacterial vaginosis happens when the lactobacillus is replaced by bacterial vaginosis bacteria called anaerobes. This includes G. vaginalis, Prevotella species, Mobiluncus species, A. vaginae and other BV bacteria.

What are the Signs of Bacterial Vaginosis?

Many women do not show any signs of bacterial vaginosis, but those who may experience the following:

1. Vaginal irritation or itching
2. Grey, white, or greenish-coloured vaginal discharge
3. Strong fishy or musty smell from the vagina and discharge
4. Burning sensation during urination

What Complications Arise from Bacterial Vaginosis?

As bacterial vaginosis is a common condition, it only rarely causes any complications. These include the following:

1. Pregnancy Complications: Bacterial vaginosis in pregnancy increases the risk of premature birth and spontaneous abortion.
2. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI): BV in itself is not an STI, but it increases the chances of acquiring sexually transmitted infections like HIV, herpes simplex virus, gonorrhoea, or chlamydia.
3. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): PID is an infection of female reproductive organs that leads to pregnancy-related complications. Bacterial vaginosis can cause pelvic inflammatory disease.

How to Prevent Bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis is not completely preventable, but its risk can be lowered by taking the following precautions.

1. Avoid douching as it changes the vagina’s natural bacterial balance.
2. Practice safe intercourse by using condoms and dental dams.
3. Avoid having multiple sexual partners.
4. Avoid tight underwear or those made of non-breathable material, as they encourage the growth of bacterial vaginosis bacteria. Instead, wear cotton underwear.
5. Regularly change pads and tampons.
6. Clean menstrual cups after use.
7. Wash genitals with warm water. Avoid using any scented products or soaps.

Bacterial vaginosis can occur in women at any stage of their reproductive years, but it is more common among those who are sexually active. While it is known that it is caused by an imbalance of lactobacillus bacteria and anaerobes in the vagina, the exact reason for this is still not known.

BV, however, can still lead to complications in pregnancy and increase the risk of STIs and PID. On experiencing symptoms of bacterial vaginosis, it is critical to consult a doctor and schedule a test for infections with Dr Lal PathLabs. Download the Dr Lal PathLabs app to conveniently schedule a test!

FAQs

1. What causes bacterial vaginosis in men?
   Men or those assigned male sex at birth do not develop bacterial vaginosis. However, they can carry the BV bacteria on their genitalia and pass it to their partners.
2. What can cure bacterial vaginosis at home?
   The use of probiotics such as yoghurt and kimchi to treat bacterial vaginosis is still being studied. Till then, the risk of BV can be decreased by adopting precautionary measures like avoiding douching, practising safe sex by using a condom, wearing cotton underwear, regularly changing pads or tampons, and washing the genital area with warm water only.
3. Is bacterial vaginosis an STD?
   No, bacterial vaginosis is not an STD. It develops when certain vaginal bacteria grow out of balance. However, it increases the risk of acquiring STDs like chlamydia and gonorrhoea.