Bacterial Vaginosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

When working with bacterial vaginosis, a common infection caused by an imbalance of the natural bacteria in the vagina. Also known as BV, it can affect women of any age.

The key player behind vaginal microbiome, the community of microbes that normally keeps the vagina healthy is the Lactobacillus species. When these good bacteria drop below a critical level, harmful anaerobes take over, raising the vaginal pH and triggering the classic symptoms of BV. That shift is the core of the first semantic triple: bacterial vaginosis involves an imbalance of the vaginal microbiome.

What to Expect When Managing BV

Typical signs include a thin gray‑white discharge, a fishy odor that gets stronger after sex, and occasional itching or burning. Many women mistake these clues for a yeast infection, but the underlying cause is different. If you’ve noticed these changes, a simple lab test—usually a swab evaluated for clue cells and pH—will confirm the diagnosis.

Once diagnosed, the most reliable cure is antibiotic therapy, usually a short course of metronidazole or clindamycin taken orally or as a gel. This satisfies the second semantic triple: effective treatment requires antibiotic therapy. Most women feel better within a few days, but completing the full regimen is crucial to avoid recurrence.

Because BV often returns, many clinicians now recommend adding probiotic treatment, live lactobacilli taken orally or vaginally to restore a healthy microbial balance. That creates the third semantic connection: probiotic supplementation can help restore the vaginal microbiome after antibiotics.

Beyond medication, lifestyle tweaks can lower the odds of a comeback. Avoid scented soaps, douching, and tight synthetic underwear that trap moisture. Using condoms during sex, especially with a new partner, reduces the chance of introducing new bacteria. Staying hydrated and eating a diet rich in fermented foods also supports natural lactobacilli growth.

While bacterial vaginosis can feel frustrating, the good news is that most cases are easy to treat and prevent with the right approach. Below you’ll find a curated list of articles that dive deeper into each aspect—symptom checklists, detailed antibiotic comparisons, probiotic options, and practical prevention tips—so you can take charge of your vaginal health with confidence.