Is BV a sexually transmitted disease?īV is not a sexually transmitted infection, according to Dean. "It's a good idea to pay attention to what your vulva and vaginal discharge normally looks, feels, and smells like, so it’s easier to notice any changes that could be signs of vaginitis or other infections," says Dean. It's also worth mentioning that BV can be mistaken for other conditions, including vaginitis, vaginal yeast infections, or trichomoniasis. If you're at all concerned that you have BV, see your doctor ASAP. Sometimes, BV can have no symptoms at all. Itching or burning around the vulva can also be a sign of BV, as can itching or burning when you pee. Bacterial Vaginosis SymptomsĬommon symptoms of BV include a thin white or gray vaginal discharge that is sometimes accompanied by a strong fishy smell, especially after having sex or washing with soap. In fact, it’s the most common vaginal infection for people with vaginas aged 15-44, though people with vaginas of any age can get it," says Dean. "BV is very common in people with vaginas who are of childbearing age, including pregnant people. This imbalance results in a reduction or undergrowth of bacteria called lactobacilli, which are instrumental in keeping the vagina healthy and acidic." Bacterial Vaginosis Risk Factors "BV is caused by an imbalance of bacterial levels and often occurs when there is an overgrowth of gardnerella vaginalis, or other bacteria that do not require oxygen to grow and multiply (anaerobic bacteria). When these vaginal bacteria are in balance, they maintain vaginal health,” Dean told Teen Vogue.
There are many different kinds of bacteria that normally live and grow in healthy vaginas. “Bacterial vaginosis, also known as BV, is a very common bacterial infection.