42. Bacterial Vaginosis

Question 1

What?

Answer 1

An infection caused by an overgrowth of bacteria.

Question 2

Why?

Answer 2

With bacterial vaginosis, the ‘normal or good’ bacteria are taken over by other bacteria. This change in balance results in the symptoms some women experience.

Question 3

Who is at risk?

Answer 3

More than one sexual partner,
It is also possible that the problem of bacteria can be transmitted on fingers or sex toys.

Question 4

Symptoms?

Answer 4

Abnormal vaginal discharge or an unusual odour which may be worse after unprotected sex.
Another clue can be a change in the normal acidity of the vaginal fluid to become more alkaline.

Question 5

Diagnosis?

Answer 5

Physical examination (a discharge or odour is noticed)
or by taking a vaginal swab test.
Another clue can be a change in the normal acidity of the fluid to become more alkaline.
Physician can look under microscope to see what bacteria are present on the swab.

Question 6

Treatment?

Answer 6

If a woman does not have any symptoms, in most cases no treatment is needed. However, if a woman is about to have a gynaecological procedure (such as insertion of an intrauterine device or termination of pregnancy) where the risk of infection spreading to the womb (uterus) is higher, then any bacterial vaginosis infection should be treated first.
Standard treatment for bacterial vaginosis is a seven-day course of metronidazole tablets.

Metronidazole is an antibiotic and is best taken with meals to reduce possible side effects such as nausea or upset stomach.