Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is the most common cause of abnormal discharge in women of child bearing age. It is not a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI), but the act of sex can trigger it off.
Women with BV have an imbalance in the normal bacteria that are found in the vagina. There are a number of triggers known to affect the acid balance in the vagina which affects the normal bacteria:
- Soaps and bubble baths (even if unscented) on the vagina
- Douching (rinsing the inside of the vagina – even with just water)
- Irregular vaginal bleeding
- Unprotected sex
Having BV can make it easier for your body to be infected with an STI. Also some STIs can have symptoms like BV - For these reasons an STI screen is recommended if you are sexually active.