What is Bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial Vaginosis is benign infection of the vagina. It goes by the names non-specific vaginitis, Gardnerella vaginitis, or simply Gardnerella. It is also referred to by its acronym of B.V.. Gardnerella is the most common bacteria involved. But it can be caused by a large variety of organisms. These are mostly categorized as anerobic bacteria.

It the common vaginal infection, especially among reproductive age women. But, it occurs in girls, and post-menopausal women as well. It is not considered a sexually transmitted disease. It is seen in virgins. Nevertheless, some vaginal infections recur because the woman's partner harbors them. It is suspected, but not proven that bacterial vaginosis' cure or recurrence rates will improve, if her male partner is treated.

It is a sponataneously arising infection. One or more of the offending bacteria overgrows in the vagina. It is a change in the normal bacteria and organisms of the vagina from aerobic to anerobic. Aerobic vs anerobic simply refers to the bacteria's metabolism -- does it need oxygen or not. (No vaginal bacteria is in there doing Tae Bo). The offending organisms were always there, just the ratios have shifted. It is much like a yeast infection.

Douching, bubble baths, or other solutions women use to flush their vaginas are associated with more Bacterial Vaginosis.

Symptoms
A bad smelling discharge is what usually brings the woman into the doctor. It is described as whitish with a gray or yellowish tint. It is thin and watery. It may get worse after her period or vaginal sex. Some have sensations of itching or burning. Women sometimes confuse this with yeast infections. Yeast does not look, nor smell, nor feel like Bacterial Vaginosis. The reason women mix them up is because they are the two most common vaginal infections.

How Serious Is It?
Still, it is estimated 5%-30% of reproductive age women have it and have no symptoms. It is not currently thought of as a dangerous infection. In typical circumstances, it will not threaten her health, future fertility or life if it is unnoticed or untreated. In most women, it can go away on its own. However, more recent studies are beginning to implicate B.V. in Pelvic Inflammatory Disease. Part of the uncertainty here, stems from the numerous changes in the definition o BV and the uncertainty of diagnosis. And it is known to lead to serious complications in pregnancy or those undergoing gynecological surgery.