Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an infection of the vagina which results due to a change in the normal balance of vaginal bacteria. BV is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI) but it can increase your risk of getting an STI for example – chlamydia. This is because with BV, your vagina is less acidic and is more prone to infection.

Around half the women with BV do not have any symptoms. BV does not cause soreness of the vagina.

The most common symptom is unusual vaginal discharge which has a strong fishy odour, is greyish-white in colour and is thin and watery in consistency.

The causes of BV are not fully known, but it can happen when a change occurs in the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.

You are more likely to get BV if you:
• are sexually active
• have changed partners
• have an IUD fitted
• use perfumed products in and around your vagina

You can treat Bacterial Vaginosis through a combination of medication and lifestyle changes to correct the balance of bacteria in the vagina.

Medications such as Balance Activ are available in the form of pessaries or gel and work to provide relief from vaginal discharge, odour and discomfort. These medications act to restore the natural pH of the vagina thus relieving BV.

For more problematic episodes of BV you should see you GP who may prescribe you a short course of antibiotics (metronidazole).

It is also important to wash your genital area with plain soap and water during an episode of BV as perfumed soaps or washes can make the infection worse.

You should see your GP for potential BV infection if:

• you are pregnant as BV can cause complications with pregnancy
• you have recurring symptoms as you may need to take treatment with antibiotics such as metronidazole
• you have a new vaginal discharge along with a smell and fever
• you have more than one intimate partner as you may need to be checked for an STI
• recently used treatment for thrush and still have symptoms

• Use plain soap and water to wash your genital areas
• Have showers instead of baths
• Do not use perfumed soaps and washes in the bath
• Do not use vaginal deodorants, washes or douches
• Do not use strong detergents to wash your underwear
• Do not smoke

Usually the disruption in the natural balance corrects by itself with time and treatment with certain gels is sufficient.