What is bacterial vaginosis?

Common bacterial vaginosis, also called bacterial vaginitis, results from an increased count of the bacteria Gardnerella vaginalis, also called Haemophilus vaginalis.

These and other bacteria present in the flora of a healthy vagina overtake the dominant lactobacillus when pH levels become abnormally high, called alkaline. Soaps and detergents are highly alkaline, while Nirena maintains a lower pH, called acidic.

Signs of bacterial vaginosis might include a white, gray, or yellowish vaginal discharge, a fishy odor strongest after sex or washing with soap, itching or burning, or a slight redness and swelling of the vagina or vulva.

While generally just an annoyance, sometimes women with bacterial vaginosis have abnormal Pap smears, contract various other infections, or even develop pelvic inflammatory disease, an infection of the fallopian tubes that can render them unable to bear children.

Bacterial vaginosis can be treated with antibiotics, including metronidazole and clindamycin, available with a prescription. Some physicians recommend treating sex partners as well.

However, to maintain normal vaginal ecology and avoid colonization by Gardnerella vaginalis, use Nirena, instead of synthetic soap or douche.