|
Type of
infection: |
Bacteria |
|
Infectious Organism: |
Anaerobic bacteria –
imbalance of bacteria normally found in a woman’s vagina (increase in
the “harmful” bacteria).
|
|
Location in the body: |
Vagina |
|
Symptoms: |
White or grayish vaginal
discharge with an unpleasant odor (often strong fish-like odor
especially after intercourse).
Some have no
symptoms.
|
|
Method
of spread: |
Vaginal intercourse –
women who have a new sex partner or who have had multiple sex partners
are more likely to develop BV. Women who have never had sexual
intercourse are rarely affected with this imbalance of bacteria in the
vagina.
|
|
Consequences: |
Pregnant women with BV more
often have babies who are born early (premature) or with low birth
weight.
The bacteria that cause BV
can also cause pelvic inflammatory disease (severe infection of uterus,
tubes, ovaries).
Increased
susceptibility to STDs such as HIV, GC, chlamydia.
|
|
Number
of new cases per year: |
Unknown |
|
Total
number infected now: |
Unknown |
|
Tests
to see if you have it: |
Pelvic exam and tests
on the vaginal fluid to look for the increase in harmful bacteria.
|
|
Treatment: |
Antibiotics by mouth
(pills) or in vaginal creams.
|
