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
