Bacterial vaginosis (BV)

What does bacterial vaginosis mean?

Bacterial vaginosis (BV): A common imbalance of vaginal bacteria, often causing thin, fishy-smelling discharge. Not classed as an STI, though sex can trigger it.

How it is used in the Splash library

• Fishy smell: possibly Bacterial vaginosis.

  From “Discharge, decoded”

• Strong fishy smell, especially after sex, with thin grey-white discharge: often Bacterial vaginosis.

  From “Smell changes down there”

• When that balance shifts, two common infections can show up: thrush and bacterial vaginosis (BV).

  From “Thrush vs BV: the itchy, fishy truth”

• Grey-white, thin, watery discharge with a strong fishy smell: the NHS links this pattern to bacterial vaginosis (BV), which is common and treatable.

  From “Period blood colour: what is normal?”

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) explained

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common condition where the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina changes. It is not a sexually transmitted infection, but it is more common in people who are sexually active.

What's typical

The main sign is a change in discharge: thin, white or grey, with a strong fishy smell that is often more noticeable after sex. Many people with BV have no symptoms.

Things that upset the vaginal balance, such as douching, perfumed soaps, a new sexual partner or a copper IUD, can make it more likely. Washing the vulva with plain water helps.

It is treated with antibiotic tablets, gel or cream from a GP or sexual health clinic. It often comes back (NHS).

When to talk to a GP, nurse or pharmacist

• You notice unusual discharge or a strong smell for the first time.
• You are pregnant and think you have BV, as it can sometimes cause complications.
• Symptoms come back after treatment, or you have pain, fever or bleeding between periods.

In the UK you can call NHS 111 for advice at any time. In an emergency call 999 (UK) or 911 (US). This is general information, not medical advice.