Bacterial Vaginosis
Introduction
Before choosing a treatment, you’ll need to complete a short online consultation. This helps ensure you receive the most appropriate and effective option for your condition.
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is a common infection that affects many women at some point in their lifetime. It occurs when the bacterial balance in your vagina changes, which can be caused by any number of factors. The vagina naturally has an acidic pH and the balance of various harmless bacteria is pretty delicate, which is why BV is so common.
Bacterial Vaginosis causes vaginal discharge and can increase the risk of getting sexually transmitted infections (STI). For women between the ages of 15 and 44, Bacterial Vaginosis is the most common vaginal condition.
While Bacterial Vaginosis is not typically serious, if you have the condition, you will need treatment.
What Is Bacterial Vaginosis?
Bacterial Vaginosis occurs due to bacteria overgrowth. It is a form of vaginal inflammation that can increase the risk of getting STIs. The most common Bacterial Vaginosis symptom is vaginal discharge with a strong smell; this can be especially prevalent after sex.
The infection is not dangerous and some women even have it without realising it because they may not experience any noticeable symptoms. In time the infection goes away by itself, however, many women do experience symptoms and therefore decide to treat the infection with medication.
What Causes Bacterial Vaginosis?
Bacterial Vaginosis is caused by the overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria in the vagina. When anaerobes (‘bad bacteria’) outnumber lactobacilli (‘good bacteria’), the balance of microorganisms in the vagina can be disrupted and Bacterial Vaginosis can occur. It is thought that sexual activity is a risk factor for Bacterial Vaginosis, but the link is not fully understood.
You may be at a higher risk of getting Bacterial Vaginosis if you:
Have multiple sex partners
Have a new sex partner
Have sex with other women
Regularly rinse out your vagina with water, as this can contribute to anaerobic bacteria
You don’t produce enough lactobacilli bacteria
Bacterial Vaginosis is not a sexually transmitted infection (as men can’t contract it and therefore can’t pass it on), however sex (especially with multiple partners) can trigger the infection, as it can mess with your vaginal bacteria balance. It’s important to practice safe sex, as BV can make you more vulnerable to PID and STIs such as HIV, chlamydia and herpes.
Bacterial Vaginosis Symptoms
Around half of women with Bacterial Vaginosis will not have any symptoms. Amongst the common symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis are:
A vaginal discharge that is of thin consistency and white, grey or green
A bad-smelling odour from the vagina
A burning feeling when urinating
Vaginal itching
You should see a doctor if:
The type of vaginal discharge is new and has an odor
You have vaginal discharge and fever
You have symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis and have multiple sex partners
You have symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis and have a new sex partner
You are currently using a self-treatment or over the counter treatment, and your symptoms have persisted
Guides
Managing a complex health condition such as obesity can be challenging due to its many causes and the time and commitment required to lose weight. In the UK alone, it is estimated that 1 in 4 adults are living with obesity and have weight-related health conditions or are at a high risk of developing weight-related health conditions. […]
In the United Kingdom, over 60% of adults are classed as overweight or obese. In this article we talk about Saxenda, the weight loss injection. In the United Kingdom, over 60% of adults are classed as overweight or obese. Being obese can bring on a multitude of diseases and co-morbidities such as diabetes, heart problems, osteoarthritis, and certain […]
This article explores the advantages of losing weight, the best ways to healthily lose weight and what products can help you on your weight loss journey. Ok, I think I can say with a large degree of certainty that whilst some of us have been able to save money, lose weight, and find new hobbies […]
How It Works
01
Find Your Treatment
Browse by condition or medication to locate what you need.
02
Complete a Safe Consultation
Our secure form allows our medical team to assess your needs
03
Receive & Recover
Have it shipped directly to you or schedule click-and-collect—fast and worry-free.
