Bacterial Vaginosis

BV is the most common vaginal infection in women of reproductive age. A change in the balance of bacteria that normally live in the vagina causes BV.

The most common symptom of BV is an increased vaginal discharge that usually has a “fishy” odor. A woman may feel a burning sensation or, in rare cases, itching, when she urinates.

Usually, “good” bacteria outnumber “bad” bacteria in your vagina. But if “bad” bacteria become too numerous, they upset the natural balance and “good” bacteria decrease. This imbalance causes BV.

Diagnosis of BV requires a vaginal exam by a qualified healthcare provider and the laboratory testing of fluid collected from the vagina.

Prescription antibiotics can cure BV by helping to readjust the balance of bacteria in the vagina. Currently, this is the only effective way to cure BV.

Currently, the only effective treatments for BV are prescribed antibiotics. These are prescribed as oral medications or as a gel or cream.

NICHD joins other NIH institutes in research efforts to advance understanding of the causes, preventative measures, and treatment for bacterial vaginosis.

NICHD conducts and supports a variety of clinical research projects related to bacterial vaginosis.

Find answers to other common questions about bacterial vaginosis, such as how BV affects pregnancy and ways to lower the risk of developing BV.

Links to websites of groups that study or provide information about bacterial vaginosis.