Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Bacterial vaginosis is the most common cause of abnormal vaginal discharge in women of reproductive age.
Overview
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common cause of abnormal vaginal discharge in women of reproductive age. It occurs when the normal balance of vaginal bacteria changes, leading to a decrease in Lactobacillus and an overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria. BV can become recurrent, reduce fertility by creating a toxic environment for sperm and vaginal cells,increase the risk of catching sexually transmitted infections and causecomplications in pregnancy.
Common Misunderstandings
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is sometimes mistaken for a yeast infection, but the causes and treatments differ. Many women feel embarrassed by the symptoms, which can include strong fishy odour, vaginal discharge and worry about recurrence — which is common.
How is Bacterial Vaginosis Linked to Your Microbiome?
- A healthy vaginal microbiome is usually dominated by Lactobacillus species, which produce lactic acid to keep the vaginal environment acidic and protect against both vaginal and bladder infections¹.
- In BV, these protective bacteria are replaced by a mix of toxic (dysbiotic) bacteria, including Gardnerella vaginalis and Atopobium vaginae.
- Recurrence is common because the vaginal microbiome can be slow to return to a healthy Lactobacillus-dominant state after treatment².
- Sexual activity, new partners, douching, and antibiotic use can disrupt the vaginal microbiome increasing the risk of acquiring BV.
Symptoms
Discharge
Thin, grey or white vaginal discharge
Odour
Strong fishy odour, especially after sexual intercourse
Itching & Irritation
MIld itching and irritation (less common)
No symptoms
Sometimes sufferers experience no symptoms at all
The Microbiome Clinic™
Our treatment approach for Bacterial Vaginosis includes:
Vaginal Microbiome Test
The Vaginal Microbiome Test identifies imbalances and pathogens in the vaginal flora to explain symptoms and guide precise, personalised treatment and prevention.
Targeted Antimicrobial Strategies
Antibiotics and plant-based/pharmaceutical antimicrobials (where appropriate) to reduce the overgrown population of unwanted bacteria in the gut and vagina.
Probiotics and Prebiotics
Targeted probiotics and prebiotics are introduced slowly to restore balance and biodiversity of microbes in the gut and vagina without fuelling overgrowth.
Individualised Nutrition Plans
Such as avoiding acidic, spicy, mouldy or sugary ingredients that might promote inflammation, irritate the bladder or promote growth of yeast.
Suspect you might have Bacterial Vaginosis?
References
- Ma B, et al. Nat Rev Microbiol. 2017;15:87–108. doi:10.1038/nrmicro.2016.157.
- Muzny CA, Schwebke JR. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2016;29:859–880. doi:10.1128/CMR.00006-14.