Bacterial Vaginosis Definition & Overview

Get Email Updates

Related Topics

Bacterial Vaginosis Guide

Alison Beaver Guide

Have a question? We're here to help. Ask the Community.

ASK

Free Newsletter

Receive the latest and greatest in women's health and wellness from EmpowHER!

Definition

Bacterial vaginosis is a mild infection of the vagina. Although it is usually treated easily, it may be a sign that you have other, more serious conditions. It can also lead to complications, including the following:

  • Pregnancy complications, such as low birth weight and premature delivery
  • Higher risk of pelvic inflammatory disease if the bacteria infect the uterus and fallopian tubes

There is an association between bacterial vaginosis and a higher risk of getting HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. If a woman has HIV and also bacterial vaginosis, there is a higher risk of transmitting HIV to her male partner during unprotected sex.

Talk to your doctor right away if you think you have bacterial vaginosis. It is treated with antibiotics.

Vagina

Nuclus factsheet image
© 2009 Nucleus Medical Art, Inc.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.

More Bacterial Vaginosis Information

ASK Your Health Question

It's FREE and you'll get a response within 24 hours

ASK

Improved

620 Health

Changed

293 Lives

Saved

210 Lives
3 lives impacted in the last 24 hrs Learn More


  

Connect with Women Like You 51 Women Care About this Condition

You're not alone. Connect with other women who are going through what you're going through, who understand and are here for you!

+ Join this Community

Take our Featured Poll

Have you ever had problems with your mental health? What did you do about it? :
View Results