Bacterial vaginosis (bv)

[PussyCat]

Bacterial vaginosis is a vaginal infection that occurs when the balance of bacteria in the vagina is altered.

Women who have a sexually transmitted disease, who have several sex partners, or who use an intrauterine device are more likely to get bacterial vaginosis.
Bacterial vaginosis can cause a thin, gray or white discharge, which may be profuse and smell fishy.
If symptoms suggest a vaginal infection, doctors examine a sample of the discharge and/or fluid from the cervix and test it for microorganisms that can cause infection.
Antibiotics applied as gels or creams or taken by mouth are effective.
Bacterial vaginosis commonly recurs.

(See also Overview of Vaginal Infections.)