Bacterial Vaginosis

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.

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What is bacterial vaginosis (BV)?

BV is an infection in the vagina. It may cause vaginitis (irritation and inflammation of the vagina). The cause is not known. Bacteria normally found in the vagina become imbalanced and cause an infection. Your risk increases if you are sexually active, you use a douche, or you have an intrauterine device (IUD).

What are common signs and symptoms of BV?

BV does not always cause symptoms. You may have any of the following:

• White, gray, or yellow vaginal discharge
• Vaginal discharge that smells like fish
• Itching or burning around the outside of your vagina

How is BV diagnosed and treated?

• Your healthcare provider will examine you and ask if you have other health conditions. Your provider may take a sample of discharge from your vagina. This will be tested for the bacteria that causes vaginosis.
• You may not need treatment if you have no symptoms. A BV infection that does not cause symptoms usually goes away on its own. You may be given antibiotics to treat the infection. They may be given as a pill or as a cream to put in your vagina.

What do I need to know about BV and pregnancy?

If you have BV during pregnancy, your baby may be born early or have a low birth weight. Your healthcare provider may recommend testing for BV before or during your pregnancy. Your provider will talk to you about your risk for premature delivery, and make sure you know the benefits and risks of testing.

How can I prevent BV?

• Keep your vaginal area clean and dry. Wear underwear and pantyhose with a cotton crotch. Wipe from front to back after you urinate or have a bowel movement. After you bathe, rinse soap from your vaginal area to decrease your risk for irritation. Change tampons, pads, or panty liners often throughout the day.
• Do not use products that cause irritation. Always use unscented tampons or sanitary pads. Do not use feminine sprays, powders, or scented tampons. They may cause irritation and increase your risk for vaginosis. Detergents and fabric softeners may also cause irritation.
• Do not use a douche. This can cause an imbalance in healthy vaginal bacteria.
• Use latex condoms during sex. This helps prevent another infection and keeps your partner from getting the infection.
• Limit your number of sex partners. This will help lower your risk for another BV infection or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• metronidazole
• MetroGel-Vaginal
• Cleocin
• Vandazole
• Clindesse

View more treatment options

When should I call my doctor or gynecologist?

• Your symptoms come back or do not improve with treatment.
• You have vaginal bleeding that is not your monthly period.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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