Bacterial vaginosis
Updated: 2023-08-05
Description
A condition caused by too much of certain bacteria in the vagina.
Overview
Bacterial vaginosis happens when bacteria usually found in the vagina grow too much. This growth upsets the balance of "good" and "bad" bacteria in the vagina. Bacterial vaginosis tends to occur during childbearing years.
Symptoms
People with bacterial vaginosis often have no symptoms.
Symptoms might include:
- Thin gray, white or green fluid coming from the vagina.
- Foul, fishy smell from the vagina.
- Itchy vagina.
- Burning while urinating.
Treatments
Treatment can include prescription cream or gel that goes into the vagina or medicines taken by mouth. Bacterial vaginosis tends to come back within 3 to 12 months. If it comes back, it needs more treatment.