BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS
DEFINITION
Bacterial vaginosis (BV), previously known as Gardnerella, is an inflammation of the vagina caused by one or more bacteria. Although not considered a sexually transmitted disease, it can be sexually transmtted , including woman to woman transmission.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
BV usually causes a vaginal discharge and odor. A mild itching may also occur. The discharge is often yellow or milky white. The odor is often "fishy". Infrequently there may by some abdominal pain or burning with urination.
DIAGNOSIS
Evaluation will include an office visit to review your medical history and a vaginal exam to check for BV and rule out other vaginal infections.
TREATMENT
Treatment of this condition is either by a vaginal cream or an oral antibiotic containing either metronidazole or clindamycin. Oral metronidazole (Flagyl) interacts with alcohol and the use of alcohol must be restricted when taking this medication. It is usually not necessary for partners to be treated. In the case of resistant cases, this may be recommended. Your provider will discuss this with you. Follow-up is not usually needed.
If you would like to make a medical appointment with a clinician at Smith Health Services, please call x2823. Or if you would prefer to first speak to a nurse about your symptoms, please call the Nurses' Station at x2813.
Adapted from Clinical Guidelines in Family Practice, edited by Uphold and Graham, 1998
SCHS 9/05