Bacterial vaginosis is a relatively common infection caused by bacterial imbalances in the vagina. It is prevalent in pregnant women; in fact, a whopping 16% of expectant moms have bacterial vaginosis.
What Causes It?
The vagina needs a balance of good and bad bacteria. When this balance is disrupted, this condition may occur. The main cause of the imbalance hasn’t been determined, but evidence shows that women who engage in sex with multiple sexual partners are at a higher risk. That said, even women who have never had sexual contact may still develop bacterial vaginosis.
What are the Symptoms?
Some women don't exhibit any symptoms, but those that do report the following:
Gray vaginal discharge with a strong, foul odor (usually a fishy smell especially after sex)
Itchiness
Burning sensation during urination
Can You Have Sex During Vaginal Infection?
Having sex with a woman with bacterial vaginosis can put one at risk for this infection. Vaginal douching may also increase the risk because it disrupts the usual bacterial balance in the vagina.
Complications
When left untreated, bacterial vaginosis can lead to serious diseases such as:
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (inflammation of the uterus and fallopian tubes)
• Infertility
• Ectopic pregnancy and other pregnancy complications
• Increased risk of sexually transmitted infection
Diagnosis of vaginal Infection
A sample of vaginal fluid is needed to diagnose the problem. Most conditions can be treated with a round of antibiotics that may be administered orally or in topical cream/ointment form that is applied in the vagina.
This condition may recur even after treatment. It’s possible to reduce your risksby staying in a monogamous sexual relationship and using condoms. Good hygiene also helps prevent bacterial vaginosis. Make it a point to wash the vagina and anus areas every day. Wearingcotton underwear that breathes and pants that are not too tight in the crotch also helps, as they allow air flow (moisture can encourage infection).
What Causes It?
The vagina needs a balance of good and bad bacteria. When this balance is disrupted, this condition may occur. The main cause of the imbalance hasn’t been determined, but evidence shows that women who engage in sex with multiple sexual partners are at a higher risk. That said, even women who have never had sexual contact may still develop bacterial vaginosis.
What are the Symptoms?
Some women don't exhibit any symptoms, but those that do report the following:
Gray vaginal discharge with a strong, foul odor (usually a fishy smell especially after sex)
Itchiness
Burning sensation during urination
Can You Have Sex During Vaginal Infection?
Having sex with a woman with bacterial vaginosis can put one at risk for this infection. Vaginal douching may also increase the risk because it disrupts the usual bacterial balance in the vagina.
Complications
When left untreated, bacterial vaginosis can lead to serious diseases such as:
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (inflammation of the uterus and fallopian tubes)
• Infertility
• Ectopic pregnancy and other pregnancy complications
• Increased risk of sexually transmitted infection
Diagnosis of vaginal Infection
A sample of vaginal fluid is needed to diagnose the problem. Most conditions can be treated with a round of antibiotics that may be administered orally or in topical cream/ointment form that is applied in the vagina.
This condition may recur even after treatment. It’s possible to reduce your risksby staying in a monogamous sexual relationship and using condoms. Good hygiene also helps prevent bacterial vaginosis. Make it a point to wash the vagina and anus areas every day. Wearingcotton underwear that breathes and pants that are not too tight in the crotch also helps, as they allow air flow (moisture can encourage infection).