Bacterial Vaginosis

Description:

It is a condition caused by the overgrowth of normal vaginal bacteria.

Effects:

• It can cause problems in pregnancy such as premature labour and low birth weight
• It can contribute to pelvic inflammatory disease especially if you have a contraceptive coil in place

Cause:

• Exact cause is not known
• It affects women with many sexual partners and new sexual partners
• It may be triggered by sexual intercourse or a period

Symptoms:

• No symptoms in most cases
• Abnormal vaginal discharge and smell
• Genital itching

Treatment:

• Antibiotics

Prevention:

• It is likely to come back in about one-fifth of cases, especially after your period or after sex
• Don’t use harsh soaps, antiseptics and sprays in the vaginal area, as they can disrupt your vagina’s normal balance

(Source: Health Service Executive (HSE), 2007 )