Bacterial vaginosis is an inflammation of the vagina. Bacterial vaginosis predominantly affects women of reproductive age, and its risk increases with vaginal douching or unprotected sex. It is not considered to be a sexually transmitted disease and is not the result of a specific infection but rather an imbalance in the bacteria normally present in the vagina.
Signs and symptoms associated with bacterial vaginosis include
- vaginal odor (described as foul-smelling or fishy) and
- vaginal discharge that is thin and gray, green, or white in color.
Other associated symptoms can include
- vaginal itching and
- pain or burning with urination.
Some women with the condition have no signs or symptoms.
Cause of bacterial vaginosis
An abnormal balance of bacterial growth within the vagina causes bacterial vaginosis.
Other bacterial vaginosis symptoms and signs
- Pain or Burning with Urination
- Vaginal Discharge That Is Thin and Gray, Green, or White in Color
- Vaginal Itching
- Vaginal Odor (Described as Foul-Smelling or Fishy)
Main Article on Bacterial Vaginosis Symptoms and Signs
SLIDESHOW
Pelvic Pain: What's Causing Your Pelvic Pain? See SlideshowPictures, Images, Illustrations & Quizzes
-
Bacterial Infections 101: Types, Symptoms, and Treatments
Get more information on bacterial skin infections, which bacteria cause food poisoning, sexually transmitted bacteria, and more....
-
Vaginal Health Quiz: Test Your Medical IQ
Take this Vaginal Health Quiz to learn about about common problems that women experience, and when to see a doctor about problems...
Examples of Medications for Bacterial Vaginosis Symptoms and Signs
From 
Women's Conditions Resources
Featured Centers
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
Subscribe to MedicineNet's Women's Health Newsletter
By clicking "Submit," I agree to the MedicineNet Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. I also agree to receive emails from MedicineNet and I understand that I may opt out of MedicineNet subscriptions at any time.