Experts do not know exactly what causes this imbalance in bacterial populations. However, there are several things that are thought to increase your risk of bacterial vaginosis:
Having more than one sexual partner, or having a new sexual partner – BV is more commonly found in sexually active women. However, those of you who are still unable to contract this condition.
- Doing vaginal douche (cleaning the vagina with a kind of spray tool).
- Active smoking.
Bacterial
vaginosis is generally a mild problem that can resolve on its own
within a few days. However, this condition can lead to other more
serious problems. Therefore, it is recommended that you consult a doctor
to get the right diagnosis and treatment.
Signs and symptoms of bacterial vaginosis
Signs and symptoms of bacterial vaginosis may include:
1. Leucorrhea is foul smelling
Foul
smelling vaginal discharge is the most common symptom of bacterial
vaginosis. The vagina that has been affected by BV shows a milky white,
grayish or yellowish vaginal discharge, also has a very strong fishy
odor – which may get worse after sex. The texture of vaginal discharge
may also look foamy or runny.
Many
things can cause abnormal vaginal discharge, including some types of
sexually transmitted diseases. See your doctor right away to run the
test and get the right treatment.
2. Pain when urinating
Pain
during urination is a common sign of bladder infection (UTI). UTIs can
be caused by bacterial infections – such as bacterial vaginosis – or
inflammation of the bladder tract.
There
are several other medical conditions that can cause painful sensations
during urination. In addition to BV, you may also complain about the
same condition if you have a sexually transmitted infection, such as
genital herpes, gonorrhea, or chlamydia.
Even
sometimes, the sensation of pain and burning is not caused by
infection, but from the use of certain products in the genital area.
Soap, lotion, and bath foam can irritate vaginal tissue. The chemicals
contained in laundry detergents or douches can also cause pain during
urination in sensitive women.
It’s
important to get tests and laboratory tests at the nearest hospital to
diagnose your complaint, especially if you have pain and have been
involved in risky sexual relations, such as unprotected sex or with more
than one partner.
3. Vaginal itching and irritation
Complaints
about itching in the vagina are common in cases of bacterial vaginosis.
Vaginal itching is an uncomfortable, sometimes painful, symptom that
usually results from irritation, infection, or menopause. This condition
can also occur as a result of certain skin disorders or sexually
transmitted diseases. In rare cases, vaginal itching may arise due to
stress or vulvar cancer.
Just like BV,
vaginal itching usually doesn’t have to be a concern. However, you
should see a doctor if the itching is severe or if you suspect that you
are showing other symptoms of the underlying condition. Your doctor can
determine the reason why your vagina feels itchy through tests and lab
tests. Your doctor can also recommend the right treatment for your
complaint.
All of the above symptoms
may be similar to vaginal yeast infections and some other health
problems. In addition, many women with BV can show no signs or symptoms.