Bacterial vaginitis, or vaginosis, is an infection of the vagina caused by overgrowth of certain species of bacteria called anaerobes. Normally the “good” bacteria, lactobacilli, keep the anaerobes in check, but when they don’t, the following signs and symptoms can appear:
- Grayish, white, or green discharge
- Itching
- Burning with urination
- Foul or “fishy” odor
Complications
- The infection can spread to the uterus and fallopian tubes, a condition known as pelvic inflammatory disease, or PID. This can in some cases result in infertility.
- Preterm birth and low birthweight can result, which can cause a number of health problems for the infant.
- Bacterial vaginosis makes women more susceptible to sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and herpes simplex virus. Women with HIV are more likely to pass it to their partners.
Prevention
- Avoid douching, and wash with only a mild soap.
- Limit your number of sex partners.
- Have your partner use a condom.
Medications–the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta recommends one of the following:
- Metronidazole (Flagyl) 500 mg orally twice a day for 7 days
- Metronidazole (Flagyl) gel .75%, one applicator intravaginally once a day for 5 days
- Clindamycin cream 2%, one applicator intravaginally at night for 7 days
If you are experiencing symptoms of bacterial vaginosis you can easily get treated online. Talk to one of our doctors to get diagnosed and treated.