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Bacterial vaginosis is a condition that occurs in the vaginal area. It is caused by an overgrowth of various bacteria. During bacterial vaginosis, the balance of the multitude of bacteria that is usually in the vagina, changes. This results in more prominent bacteria, and some bacteria even multiply.
Women with bacterial vaginosis usually experience white-grey vaginal discharge that has an odor similar to fish.
With that being said, what puts you at a higher risk to contract bacterial vaginosis (BV)? Women are more likely to get BV if they:
- Smoke
- Use a bubble bath
- Have a history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Are sexually active
- Recently changed their sexual partner
- Are from a family with Afro-Caribbean origins
- Have an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD), copper coil for contraception
On the other hand women are less likely to get bacterial vaginosis if they:
- Have a partner who has undergone a circumcision
- Use condoms during intercourse
- Use the combined oral contraceptive pill
If you believe you are experiencing bacterial vaginosis or any other condition in the vaginal area, you should consult with your doctor immediately.
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Source: http://patient.info/health/bacterial-vaginosis-leaflet
