Bacterial vaginosis is a condition which can affect any woman. Just like your digestive system, your vagina is home lots of different types of bacteria. When some bacteria grow more quickly than others, it can upset the natural pH balance leading to an imbalance in your vagina. Bacterial vaginosis is not a sexually transmitted and cannot be passed from person to person, but it can increase your risk if you are sexually active.
More often there are no symptoms of bacterial vaginosis, and it doesn’t usually cause any itching or irritation. However, many women may notice changes in the colour and texture of their vaginal discharge. Another common symptom is a strong, unpleasant odour which can be more noticeable during sex and whilst you are on your period.
If you think you may be suffering from bacterial vaginosis, there are many treatments available to help relive the unpleasant symptoms. It may also be good idea to avoid any triggers that you have identified yourself in order to reduce your risk of it recurring.
A swab test if one of the first things which can be carried out to test the pH balance in your vagina. This works by taking a sample of the vaginal discharge and testing the pH (alkaline/acid) balance of your vagina. This usually only takes a few minutes to be carried out and is a fast and effective way of getting a result. Once you have a positive test result it can then be treated with an antibacterial vaginal cream or gel and is more often favoured over oral antibiotics prescribed by a doctor.
