Just The Facts about Sexually Transmitted Infections

BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS

What is it?

Bacterial vaginosis is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria (bugs) that are normally only present in the vagina in small numbers. When these bacteria are present in large numbers they may cause symptoms such as an abnormal discharge or odour. Bacterial vaginosis is sometimes called non-specific vaginitis or Gardnerella vaginitis.

How do you get it?

It is not clear whether bacterial vaginosis is a sexually transmitted infection and it isn’t known why some people with a vagina get it and some don’t. It often develops soon after intercourse with a new partner and can be associated with other sexually transmitted infections. It is possible that it may arise from bacteria transmitted on fingers or sex toys.


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    The following practices can increase your risk of getting bacterial vaginosis:

    • Sex with a new partner is associated with getting bacterial vaginosis for the first time.
    • Sex with an ongoing partner after treatment and not using condoms, is associated with getting bacterial vaginosis back again.
    • Having a sexual partner with a vagina.
    • Not using condoms correctly every time you have sex from start to finish.
    • Cleaning inside the vagina with water, soap or other products (douching).

Symptoms

Bacterial vaginosis may cause an increase in normal vaginal secretions (fluid leaking from the vagina). There may be a strong odour from the vagina, and the smell may be worse after unprotected sex. Some people may not have any symptoms.

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    Other infections may be present at the same time as bacterial vaginosis and may have similar symptoms. It is therefore important to take tests to rule out sexually transmitted infections as well.

Is it serious?

Bacterial vaginosis is easy to treat and does not lead to any serious health problems.

How do you get tested?

Bacterial vaginosis can be easily diagnosed by doing a vaginal swab test at your local sexual health clinic. Results of this test will be available before you leave the appointment and you can be prescribed treatment.

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    During a medical examination, the nurse or doctor may notice a discharge or odour. The normal acidity of the vaginal fluid may have changed to become more alkaline, even though you may not have noticed any symptoms.  

Treatment

Treatment of bacterial vaginosis is not required if there are no symptoms. Treatment is offered if you have symptoms or if you are about to have a gynaecological procedure (such as insertion of an IUD or termination of pregnancy) which could allow bacteria into the uterus.

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    Treatment is usually metronidazole (Flagyl) antibiotic tablets, taken for seven days. Metronidazole may cause nausea or an upset stomach; these effects can be reduced by taking the tablets with meals. Do not drink alcohol during treatment or you may get a severe hangover.

Prevention

Condoms used correctly every time you have sex from start to finish will provide some protection from bacterial vaginosis and offer good protection from many other sexually transmitted infections.


Telling your sexual partner/s

If you are diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis, it is recommended that sexual partners with a vagina are tested and treated too. Your nurse, doctor or sexual health clinic can help you deal with this situation, or read our section on How to tell a partner about STIs? Currently treatment of partners with a penis is not recommended as there’s insufficient evidence to show that it would be of benefit.

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