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Please note: This information was as
current as we could make it on the date given above. But medical information is
always changing, and some information given here may be out of date. For
regularly updated information on a variety of health topics, please visit
familydoctor.org, the AAFP patient
education Web site. |
Bacterial Vaginosis
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Patient Information Collection VAGINAL INFECTIONS
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What is bacterial vaginosis?
Bacterial vaginosis is a mild infection of the vagina caused by a kind of bacteria. The vagina normally contains "good" bacteria and other kinds of bacteria called anaerobes (say: ann-air-robes). Too many anaerobes can cause an infection. No one knows why anaerobes sometimes overgrow and cause this infection.
How do I know if I have bacterial vaginosis?
You may notice a discharge from your vagina. The discharge may be clear or colored. It may be very light or heavy. It may have a fishy smell, especially after you have intercourse. Some women have bacterial vaginosis without any symptoms.
How can my doctor tell if I have bacterial vaginosis?
Your doctor will look into your vagina and use a cotton swab to get a sample of the discharge. This sample will be tested.
If this is an infection, did I catch it from someone?
No. Although bacterial vaginosis is more common in women who are sexually active, it also occurs in women who are not sexually active. Your sex partner usually will not have to be treated.
Do I have to be treated?
Yes, if you are having symptoms. If you are pregnant, sometimes you may need to be treated even if you are not having symptoms, to lower the risk of having your baby too early. Your doctor will decide if you need treatment.
How is bacterial vaginosis treated?
There are several ways to treat this infection. The most common medicines for bacterial vaginosis are metronidazole (brand name: Flagyl) and clindamycin. Your doctor may give you pills to take by mouth, or a cream or gel to put in your vagina. It is important to use your medicine exactly the way your doctor tells you.
If your doctor prescribes metronidazole, do not drink any alcohol while taking the medicine or for 72 hours afterward. Drinking even small amounts of alcohol when taking metronidazole can cause nausea and vomiting. Clindamycin vaginal cream can cause latex condoms and diaphragms to break. Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medicines you are taking.
This handout provides a general overview on this topic and may not apply to everyone. To find out if this handout applies to you and to get more information on this subject, talk to your family doctor.
Visit familydoctor.org for information on this and many other health-related topics.
Copyright © 2004 by the American Academy of Family
Physicians.
Permission is granted to print and photocopy this material for
nonprofit educational uses. Written permission is required for all other uses,
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