What is bacterial vaginosis?
Bacterial vaginosis occurs because the normal lactic acid bacteria in the vagina have disappeared, while a number of other bacteria have spread instead. These bacteria are also normally found in the vagina, but to a much lesser extent than in bacterial vaginosis. Among others, the bacterium Gardnerella vaginalis, which also means that the condition is sometimes referred to as gardnerella.
Bacterial vaginosis is only seen in women with an estrogen-stimulated mucosa, i.e. women who are in their menstrual age.
The condition must be mentioned, as it is probably the most frequent cause of vaginal discharge in women.
It is not known why some women get bacterial vaginosis, but frequent intercourse may predispose them. In addition, new partners, multiple partners and douching of the vagina can be possible reasons for bacterial vaginosis.
How is bacterial vaginosis contagious?
Bacterial vaginosis is not contagious between women and men, but can possibly be transmitted between women if they have sex with other women.
Condoms can protect against bacterial vaginosis – also when using sex toys together. Hand washing or rubber gloves can prevent infection between women.
What are the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis?
The symptoms are very characteristic:
- Fishy, rotten smell
- Discharge from the vagina, possibly frothy
The symptoms are most pronounced in connection with intercourse.
Some women go with these genes for months without perceiving it as abnormal.
How is bacterial vaginosis tested and treated?
The discharge and smell are often characteristic enough for the doctor to determine the condition. The doctor can examine secretions from the vagina under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis.
Bacterial vaginosis usually goes away without treatment because the body restores the balance in the vagina by itself. If you have bacterial vaginosis and only a few problems with the condition, treatment is therefore not necessary.
If the discomfort persists and is bothersome, antibiotics can be given. You must avoid consuming alcohol during treatment because it can act like antabuse. Partners should not be treated.
The effect of the treatment may be short-lived. For approximately every 3rd woman who has received treatment, renewed treatment may become necessary after a few months.
IUD users with frequent bacterial vaginosis can try to have the IUD removed to improve the condition. They can also try using condoms before any decision on the removal.
Possible consequences of bacterial vaginosis
For pregnant women who have previously given birth prematurely, signs of bacterial vaginosis must be investigated and treated, as the condition can increase the risk of early water loss and premature birth. Bacterial vaginosis is not considered a problem for otherwise healthy pregnant women.
Bacterial vaginosis can increase the risk of abdominal infection after a surgical abortion and therefore symptoms of the condition must be treated in connection with a surgical abortion.