• 20 Oct, 2026
• SendClinic
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Bacterial Vaginosis: Symptoms & Treatment | SendClinic

What Is Bacterial Vaginosis?

If you have ever noticed an unusual odor or discharge and wondered what was going on, you are not alone. Bacterial vaginosis, often called BV, is one of the most common vaginal conditions among women of reproductive age. It happens when the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina is thrown off. The good bacteria decrease, and other types of bacteria grow too much.

BV is not a sexually transmitted infection, though certain sexual behaviors can increase your risk. It is also not caused by poor hygiene. Many women feel embarrassed or confused when they first notice symptoms, but BV is very treatable. Understanding what it is and what to do about it can help you feel more in control of your health.

Common Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis

One of the tricky things about BV is that some women have no symptoms at all. When symptoms do show up, the most well-known sign is a thin, grayish or white discharge with a strong, fishy smell. This odor is often more noticeable after sex.

Other symptoms can include:

• Burning during urination
• Itching around the outside of the vagina
• Unusual vaginal discharge that looks thin or watery

It is important to know that BV symptoms can look similar to other conditions, like yeast infections or sexually transmitted infections. A yeast infection usually causes thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge and more intense itching. Because these conditions can be hard to tell apart, getting a proper evaluation from a licensed provider is the best way to know for sure what you are dealing with.

What Causes the Bacterial Imbalance?

The vagina is home to a community of bacteria, and most of the time, a type called Lactobacillus keeps everything in balance. When Lactobacillus levels drop, other bacteria can grow out of control. Researchers do not fully understand why this happens, but several factors are linked to an increased risk of BV.

Common risk factors include:

• Having a new or multiple sexual partners
• Douching, which disrupts the natural vaginal environment
• Not using condoms consistently
• Natural hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy or menstruation

It is worth repeating that BV is not caused by being unclean. In fact, douching — which many people do thinking it will help — can actually make BV more likely by washing away protective bacteria. Keeping things simple and avoiding harsh soaps or sprays in the vaginal area is generally the healthiest approach.

Why It Is Important to Treat BV

Some people wonder if BV will go away on its own. While it sometimes does, leaving BV untreated can lead to complications. BV has been linked to a higher risk of getting sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. If you are pregnant, untreated BV may increase the risk of preterm birth or low birth weight.

BV can also sometimes lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) if left unchecked, especially if you are exposed to certain infections. PID can affect the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries and may cause serious reproductive health problems. Because of these risks, it is always a good idea to talk to a healthcare provider if you think you might have BV.

Getting treatment promptly gives you the best chance of avoiding these complications. It also means you can feel more comfortable and confident in your day-to-day life. Many women feel significant relief after starting treatment.

How Bacterial Vaginosis Is Treated

BV is treated with antibiotics prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider. The most commonly used medications are metronidazole and clindamycin, which can come in pill form or as a gel or cream applied inside the vagina. Your provider will recommend the form that makes the most sense for your situation.

It is important to take all of your medication as directed, even if your symptoms go away before you finish. Stopping early can allow the bacteria to come back. Some women experience BV again within a few months, even after successful treatment. If that happens, your provider can discuss longer-term treatment options with you.

Over-the-counter products marketed for vaginal odor or balance are not the same as prescription antibiotic treatment. If you suspect BV, getting an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment is much more effective than relying on store-bought remedies. If you need a fast and easy way to speak with a provider, SendClinic offers convenient video and phone visits with licensed healthcare professionals — no insurance required.

Tips for Prevention and Vaginal Health

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent BV, some habits may help lower your risk. Keeping the vaginal environment as balanced as possible is the key idea here. Avoiding anything that disrupts the natural bacterial community can make a real difference.

Helpful habits include:

• Avoiding douching entirely
• Using mild, unscented soap on the external genital area only
• Wearing breathable, cotton underwear
• Using condoms during sex, which may help reduce risk
• Limiting the number of sexual partners

Probiotic supplements, especially those containing Lactobacillus strains, are being studied as a possible way to support vaginal health. Talk to your provider before starting any supplement, as the research is still ongoing. Small, everyday choices can add up and help your body maintain its natural balance.

When to Talk to a Provider

If you notice any unusual discharge, odor, or discomfort in the vaginal area, it is always worth reaching out to a healthcare provider. Do not wait or try to guess whether it is BV, a yeast infection, or something else. An accurate diagnosis makes all the difference in getting the right treatment.

You deserve fast, judgment-free care. SendClinic makes it simple to connect with a licensed provider from home through a video or phone visit. No long waits, no insurance needed — just the care and answers you are looking for.

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Bacterial Vaginosis — CDC Fact Sheet.” CDC. 2023.
• Workowski, Kimberly A., et al. “Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines, 2021.” Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR). CDC. 2021.
• Mayo Clinic Staff. “Bacterial Vaginosis.” Mayo Clinic. 2023.
• Koumans, Emilia H., et al. “The Prevalence of Bacterial Vaginosis in the United States, 2001–2004.” Sexually Transmitted Diseases. 2007.
• National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. “Bacterial Vaginosis.” NIH. 2022.