Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) occurs when the balance of natural bacteria in the vagina is disrupted, leading to an overgrowth of certain bacteria. Bacterial vaginosis is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but sexual activity can cause a bacterial imbalance. Having bacterial vaginosis makes it more likely to get or pass HIV and other STIs.
Symptoms
Many people with bacterial vaginosis do not have symptoms, so you could have it and not know it.
If you have symptoms, they can include:
- Burning during urination
- Foul-smelling vaginal odor (especially after sex)
- Off-white, gray, or greenish-colored vaginal discharge
- Itching or swelling in or around the vagina
Prevention
Avoid vaginal douching or cleaning the inside of your vagina with water or other fluids, as this can change the balance of natural bacteria and acidity necessary to maintain a healthy vagina, increasing the risk of bacterial vaginosis.
Having new or multiple sex partners may increase the risk of bacterial vaginosis. Limiting the number of sex partners may help reduce risk.
Testing and Treatment
Get tested if you have symptoms of bacterial vaginosis. A health care provider can diagnose you by testing a sample of vaginal fluid.
Bacterial vaginosis is treated with antibiotics, either as pills or vaginal gel. It is important to take all medicine as prescribed by your provider.
Bacterial vaginosis may come back even after treatment. Recent studies suggest that treating the sex partners of a person with bacterial vaginosis may help reduce the chances of it coming back. NYC Sexual Health Clinics provide care for people with bacterial vaginosis and their partners. This means male patients may walk into the clinic indicating that their partner was diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis and they will receive care.
Bacterial Vaginosis in Pregnancy
Pregnant people with symptoms of bacterial vaginosis should be tested and treated.
Bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy has been associated with premature birth and infections of the uterus after delivery.
Where to Get Sexual Health Care
NYC Sexual Health Clinics offer low- to no-cost services, including testing and treatment for bacterial vaginosis and STIs. Anyone 12 years and older can receive services, regardless of immigration status. Parental consent is not necessary.
To find other sexual and reproductive health providers near you, visit the NYC Health Map: