While some risk factors for BV are not modifiable, there are steps women can take to reduce their risk, such as avoiding douching, limiting the number of sexual partners, using condoms consistently and correctly, and avoiding smoking.

BV is easily treatable with prescription based antibiotics. It’s important to complete the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully eradicated

Causes: BV occurs when the balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted. Normally, the vagina contains a balance of “good” bacteria (Lactobacillus species) and other bacteria. When there’s an overgrowth of harmful bacteria such as Gardnerella vaginalis, BV can develop.

Symptoms: BV symptoms may include a thin, white or gray vaginal discharge, a strong fishy odor (especially after sex), itching or irritation in the vaginal area, and sometimes burning during urination. However, some women with BV may not experience any symptoms.

A yeast infection is a fungal infection that is treated with antifungal medication. It can cause symptoms including thick, white vaginal discharge; itching, irritation, and soreness of the vulva; pain or discomfort during sex or urination; and redness and swelling of the vulva.

If you suspect you have bacterial vaginosis (BV) or experience symptoms such as unusual vaginal discharge, a fishy odor, or vaginal itching or irritation, it’s essential to seek medical advice promptly. Getting treatment for BV as soon as possible can help alleviate symptoms, prevent complications, and reduce the risk of spreading the infection. Additionally, if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant and have symptoms of BV, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment, as BV can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy.

The goal of treatment is to eliminate the overgrowth of harmful bacteria and restore the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina. In most cases, symptoms of BV improve within a few days of starting treatment, and the infection clears up completely within a week or so.

However, while the initial treatment for BV is short-term, some women may experience recurrence of BV after completing their course of antibiotics. In such cases, a healthcare provider may recommend additional or prolonged treatment to help prevent recurrence. This could involve repeated courses of antibiotics or other measures aimed at restoring and maintaining the balance of bacteria in the vagina over the long term.

Additionally, some women may benefit from lifestyle changes or preventive measures to reduce the risk of BV recurrence, such as avoiding douching, using condoms consistently and correctly, and maintaining good genital hygiene. Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is important for monitoring and managing BV, especially for women who experience recurrent infections.

It’s important to complete the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully eradicated, however, recurrent symptoms may occur. This is typically a normal occurrence for most woman, however, it is nothing to be overly concerned about.

If recurrent symptoms occur, it is best to consult your health care provider to receive progressive treatment to manage symptoms until the symptoms fully fade and your PH is able to balance out.

While BV itself is not usually serious, it can lead to complications if left untreated. It may increase the risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV, herpes, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. BV can also lead to complications during pregnancy, including premature birth and low birth weight.

The treatment plan for BV would depend on your symptoms as well as your treatment course advised by your assigned doctor.