Information on Bacterial Vaginosis

(Published 08/2010)

Is Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) a sexually transmitted infection?

  • Bacterial Vaginosis is NOT a sexually transmitted infection.
  • It is common in women of childbearing age and it occurs when there is an imbalance of normal healthy flora (bacteria) in the vagina.
  • Any women can get Bacterial Vaginosis, but you are more likely to get it if: You use an intrauterine contraceptive device, you douche, and you have a new sex partner or multiple sex partners.

Is treatment necessary for Bacterial Vaginosis?

  • Majority of women have no symptoms at all, therefore treatment is not necessary.
  • Minority of women have vaginitis symptoms such as unusual vaginal discharge and itching around vagina. Treatment is recommended for women with symptoms. You can seek medical advice from a General Outpatient Clinic or private doctor for management of bacterial vaginosis if necessary.
  • Other considerations:
    • Bacterial Vaginosis increase the risk of post-operative infection, such as Pelvic Infectious Disease following gynaecological procedures (including insertion of intrauterine device, termination of pregnancy and hysterectomy) and for this reason, women with signs of BV should be treated prior to the procedure.
    • If you are pregnant, whether you have symptoms or not, you should inform your doctor so that appropriate management can be provided.

Can Bacterial Vaginosis recur after treatment ?

  • Symptoms can recur after treatment.