Overview
Symptoms
Some women have no symptoms but for those that do, the most common symptom of bacterial vaginosis is a greyish white and watery vaginal discharge that has a strong fishy smell, particularly after sex. It does not normally cause itchiness or soreness and is not a sexually transmitted disease but can increase the risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease. It is common for it to reoccur.
Causes
Bacterial vaginosis is an inflammation of the vagina caused by the overgrowth of bacteria found normally occurring in the vagina. Women who are sexually active are most likely to get bacterial vaginosis and it can affect women of any age. Activities such as having unprotected sex or douching frequently can increase the risk of getting bacterial vaginosis.
Treatments
Bacterial vaginosis is usually treated with antibiotic tablets or gels or creams, prescribed by a GP or sexual health clinic. If you have a same-sex partner, they may also need treatment.
It is possible to buy a test in a pharmacy that can help diagnose whether or not you have bacterial vaginosis.