Bacterial Vaginosis is a mild vaginal infection caused by the imbalance of “good” and “bad” bacteria in the vaginal area. It is a very common infection especially in women who are sexually active. As far as the female organ is concerned, there are “good” bacteria in the vagina which arrest the growth of the “bad” bacteria.

However, at times there is an increase in the number of “bad” bacteria, and the “good” bacteria are unable to contain the growth of the former. This results in the vaginal infection.

bacterial vaginosis symptoms

The infection alone is not something very severe, and often it heals on its own after a few days. About half of the total number of women with bacterial Vaginosis does not experience any symptoms. According to gynaecologists, it is not a cause of worry for such patients who have the infection but do not exhibit any bacterial vaginosis symptoms.

The infection occurs and heals on its own in most of the cases. But it is important to be aware of the symptoms, as although the infection is mild, leaving it untreated may lead to serious consequences.

Primary Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial Vaginosis also referred to as vaginal bacteriosis, can be asymptomatic. It means that women with this infection may not have any signs or symptoms of this infection. When the infection is asymptomatic, it may not require any treatment at all. But there are many women who show symptoms of this infection. Typical symptoms of bacterial Vaginosis are:

  • Consistency: Vaginal discharge becomes thin like water.
  • Malodour: The vaginal discharge tends to have a sharp stink like a “fishy” smell. The malodour is especially strong after intercourse.
  • Colour: There is a greyish or whitish vaginal discharge.
  • Other symptoms: Many women experience a burning sensation in the vagina during urination. There are reports of the vaginal area getting itchy as well.

Although, it has been said that the infection is not a cause of concern at most occasions, there are certain complications that may arise due to this, mainly during pregnancy.

A pregnant woman suffering from Bacterial Vaginosis may run the risk of pre-term delivery. A newborn may have low birth weight if the mother has this bacterial infection. The infection may act as catalyst and increase the chances of contracting infection after surgery such as hysterectomy or abortion. With woman who have multiple physical partners and indulge in unprotected intercourse, the chances of contracting serious sexually transmitted diseases are higher if they have bacterial vaginosis.