Bacterial Vaginosis: Signs, Symptoms, & Treatments
Bacterial vaginosis, often called BV, is the most common vaginal problem for women of reproductive age, affecting about 1 in 3 American women. But despite how common it is, sometimes it can still be difficult to talk about. BV’s signs and symptoms, far beyond pelvic pain, can involve vaginal discharge, unpleasant odors, and itching—all things that women sometimes avoid bringing up with their doctors because they can be embarrassing.
But there’s nothing to be embarrassed about! You deserve proper treatment and help for this common issue so you can get back to your regularly scheduled life as quickly as possible. Here you can learn more about what bacterial vaginosis is as well as the signs, symptoms, and treatments that are known to help alleviate the discomfort and help clear it up.
What is Bacterial Vaginosis?
Bacterial vaginosis is a common vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of certain types of bacteria. It strikes roughly 30% percent of all American women with symptoms of itchy or burning sensations around the outside of the vagina. It’s also accompanied by a foul, fishing-smelling, and grayish discharge.
Often, women mistake BV for a yeast infection because it can show similar signs. With both conditions, the natural balance of your vagina is upset. With BV, bacteria cause that upset. With a yeast infection, the problem is an overgrowth of the fungus Candida. Over-the-counter yeast infection treatments won’t help BV.
Bacterial Vaginosis Symptoms
There are a few tell-tale symptoms that can help you determine whether you have BV. For instance, you may notice thin, white, gray, or green discharge from your vagina. There will also likely be a “fishy” vaginal odor, which may get worse after intercourse, and itching. It’s also possible you’ll feel some burning during urination, and pelvic pain.
Some women have no signs or symptoms, or they’re so mild that women don’t even notice they have a problem. That’s just one reason why going to your annual gynecological exam is so important!
What Causes Bacterial Vaginosis
BV occurs is that there is an overgrowth of one of several bacteria naturally found in your vagina. It happens when the “bad” bacteria outnumber the “good.” While we don’t fully understand all the ways that women get and spread BV, we do know a lot of the risk factors, including:
Having multiple sex partners or a new sex partner
Douching
Not using condoms, or using them improperly
Having a natural lack of “good” bacteria in your body
We also know what doesn’t cause BV: you can’t get it from toilet seats, swimming pools, or bedding. All of these are debunked myths!
How to Test for BV & BV Treatment Options
You should always schedule an appointment with a women’s health provider if you have a new vaginal discharge that’s associated with an odor, or you’re prone to vaginal infections and experience frequent or recurring discomfort. You should also see a doctor if you’ve had multiple sex partners recently, have been with a new partner, or your symptoms persist after treating a yeast infection with an over-the-counter solution.
The good news about BV is that we can easily treat it with antibiotics. There are several medication types we can prescribe, depending on your preference and the nature of your infection:
Metronidazole: available as a pill you swallow or a topical gel
Clindamycin: a cream that you insert into the vagina
Tinidazole: a pill you swallow
Secnidazole: a powder packet that you sprinkle into food or drink
Does BV Go Away on its Own?
Sometimes, BV can clear up on its own. However, left untreated, BV can lead to further problems, which may include Pelvic Inflammatory Disease and an increased risk of contracting an STD, such as chlamydia or HIV. If you are experiencing any of the signs and symptoms of BV, it’s wise to visit a specialist at Statesboro Women’s Health.
Getting treatment for BV is especially important if you’re expecting a child! Having BV during pregnancy can increase the risk of premature birth or low birth weight in your baby. So, if you’re pregnant with symptoms of BV, schedule an appointment for testing and treatment as soon as possible.
Next Steps
Are you experiencing pelvic pain, discomfort, or uncomfortable odors down there? You don’t have to feel ashamed—you need compassionate care to clear up the issues and get you back to your regularly scheduled life. Your gynecologist should provide a range of treatment options, educational resources, and advice to help you live life healthy and pain-free. If you’re looking for a supportive new OB/GYN, contact Dr. Gary B. Sullivan today!
Bacterial Vaginosis Treatment and Beyond in Statesboro, GA
Here at Statesboro Women’s Health, Dr. Gary B. Sullivan, OB/GYN, and his team are specialists in all things pelvic pain, from bacterial vaginosis to endometriosis and beyond. Dr. Sullivan offers a wide range of treatment options for pelvic pain depending on your situation and diagnosis. These include medicines, hormonal treatments, minimally invasive surgeries, and information on holistic approaches. Don’t live another day in pain—call (912) 875-0392 or contact us online to schedule your first appointment today!