Conditions and symptoms
What Is Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)?
Bacterial Vaginosis · say it: bak-TEER-ee-ul vaj-ih-NOH-sisAlso written: BV, vaginal bacterial imbalance
Short answer
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal condition caused by an imbalance of the usual bacteria, often with a thin discharge and fishy smell.
What it means
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) happens when the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina changes, with fewer of the usual protective bacteria and more of other types. It often causes a thin, grey or white discharge with a fishy smell, especially after sex, though many people have no symptoms. It is not usually itchy or sore, which helps tell it apart from thrush.
BV appears on labels of antibiotics such as metronidazole and clindamycin (tablets, gels or creams) as an indication. Labels explain how to use vaginal products, warn that some creams can weaken latex condoms and diaphragms for a time, and may warn about alcohol with metronidazole. Treatment in pregnancy is something to discuss with a clinician.
BV is different from vulvovaginal candidiasis (thrush), which is a yeast infection, and from sexually transmitted infections, though BV is more common in people who are sexually active. Testing helps when symptoms are unclear or keep coming back.
Where you may see it
- Metronidazole and clindamycin labels under 'Indications'
- Vaginal gel and cream leaflets
- Sexual health clinic results
📄 How it looks on a report
Clindamycin vaginal cream: indicated for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis in non-pregnant women.
🙅 What it does not mean
- BV is not caused by poor hygiene; douching can actually make it more likely.
- It is not the same as thrush, so antifungal products will not treat it.
- BV is not classed as a sexually transmitted infection, though sex can affect it.
🗒️ Questions to ask your doctor
💊 Medicines whose labels mention “Bacterial Vaginosis”
Plain-English explanations of each medicine, from its official FDA label.
- Clindamycin Phosphate
A lincosamide antibacterial medicine
🔗 Read more from trusted sources
- “Bacterial Vaginosis” on MedlinePlus ↗
US National Library of Medicine
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