Overview
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of bacteria. Every healthy vagina contains bacteria. Typically, these bacteria balance each other. Sometimes, the “bad” bacteria grow too much and overpower the “good” bacteria. This throws off the balance of bacteria in your vagina and leads to bacterial vaginosis.
Bacterial vaginosis may cause your vaginal discharge to have a “fishy” odor. It can also cause vaginal irritation in some people. Others may not have any symptoms of BV.
How common is bacterial vaginosis?
Bacterial vaginosis is the most common vaginal problem for women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB) ages 15 to 44. In fact, about 35% of people with a vagina will get BV. The rate is higher if you’re Black.
Who can get BV?
Anyone with a vagina can get bacterial vaginosis. It usually occurs in people who are sexually active. It’s rare for it to occur in people who’ve never had sex. Some people may naturally produce too much of the bacteria that causes BV.
You may have a higher risk of getting BV if you:
- Are pregnant.
- Don’t use condoms or dental dams.
- Have an intrauterine device (IUD).
- Have multiple sex partners.
- Have a new sex partner.
- Have a sex partner who’s AFAB.
- Use douches.
- Are taking antibiotics.
Symptoms
When to see a doctor
Complications
- High blood pressure.
- Diabetes.
- Heart failure.
- Some types of heart valve disease.
Prevention
- Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
- Don't smoke or use tobacco.
- Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
- Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
- Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Reduce and manage stress.
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