subject: Bacterial Vaginosis Signs And Symptoms - Do I Have Bv? [print this page] Bacterial vaginosis is a common condition caused by an overgrowth of harmful bacteria within the vagina. There are a number of different strains of bacteria which live within the vagina and this condition happens when one of the bad strains is allowed to grow out of control, meaning that the protective effect of the beneficial bacteria must have been diminished somewhat.
Bacterial vaginosis signs and symptoms include:-
* A foul, fishy smelling vaginal discharge which is gray or white in color and rather watery
* The discharge tend to he worse after sex and just after your period
* There is sometimes, but not always, some itching, irritation or inflammation of the delicate vaginal tissues
You need to be aware that bacterial vaginosis is not the only cause of discharge. It is the color, consistency and odor which distinguishes it from other conditions.
Why this condition occurs can be something of a mystery. It is not caused by poor hygiene. Indeed, over-washing and the zealous use of perfumed soaps, detergents and shower gels can be contributory factors. It is also more common in smokers, those who eat a poor diet, IUD users and women who have recently had a change of sexual partner. BV can affect all women, not just those who are sexually active and is common during the fertile years.
Sometimes, a doctor will be happy to diagnose BV just from a description of your symptoms and by checking the consistency and color of the discharge. However, she may wish to take a swab, or sample of the discharge. This can then enable the testing of the pH level, with an alkaline level indicating BV. A swab can also be checked under a microscope to see if there are large numbers of bacteria present.
If the doctor diagnoses your bacterial vaginosis signs and symptoms as "positive", you may be given antibiotics to kill off the harmful bacteria and this can work well for isolated outbreaks. However, repeated outbreaks are a sign that is a recurrent issue which needs addressing.
Although not initially harmful, if left untreated BV can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease and can even render some women infertile.
