What is it?
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is a common condition of the vagina caused by an overgrowth of various bacteria (germs). It is not just a simple infection caused by one type of bacterium.
· The main symptom of BV is a vaginal discharge. BV is one of the most common causes of vaginal discharge in women of childbearing age. The discharge is often a white-grey colour, and often has a fishy smell. The smell may be most noticeable when having sex. The discharge tends to be heaviest just after a period, and after having sex.
· The discharge does not usually cause itch or soreness around the vagina and vulva.
· Many women with BV do not have any symptoms (up to half of cases). BV may be found by chance when vaginal swabs are taken for other reasons.
BV is not the only cause of a vaginal discharge. Several other conditions, such as Candida (Thrush) can cause a discharge.
Why you should get tested.
Untreated Bacterial Vaginosis may cause serious complications, such as increased susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections including HIV, and may present other complications for pregnant women. It has also been associated with an increase in the development of Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) following surgical procedures such as a hysterectomy or an abortion.
How can I get it?
BV is not a sexually transmitted disease and you do not contract BV from a sexual partner. BV is an overgrowth of certain bacteria in the vagina.
How do I know if I have it? What are the symptoms?
The most common symptom of BV is a white vaginal discharge (especially after sex) with an unpleasant, fishy smell.
Bacterial Vaginosis testing ~ testing for Bacterial Vaginosis
Testing for Bacterial Vaginosis at home with Better2know is easy, fast and painless. For women, you simply urinate in the container we post you and you send it back in the prepaid envelope provided. Please be sure that you wait 3 hours before urinating.
Treating Bacterial Vaginosis
If you test positive for BV, an antibiotic is generally prescribed.
