Bacterial Vaginosis Pictures - 3 Photos & Images

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an abnormal vaginal condition that is characterized by vaginal discharge and results from an overgrowth of atypical bacteria in the vagina. It is not a true bacterial infection but rather an imbalance of the bacteria that are normally present in the vagina.

Bacterial vaginosis signs and symptoms may include:

• An excessive grayish white vaginal discharge, unlike normal vaginal discharge. Some women describe the discharge as "yellow."
• A bothersome "fishy" odor, which is usually worse after sex (intercourse).
• Vaginal itching
• Burning during urination

Bacterial vaginosis often clears up on its own. But in some women it doesn't go away on its own. And for many women it comes back after it has cleared up. Antibiotic treatment works for some women but not others.
BV can usually be successfully treated using a short course of antibiotic tablets or an antibiotic gel you apply inside your vagina. In most cases, you'll be prescribed antibiotic tablets to take twice a day for five to seven days.
However, it's common for BV to return. More than half of women successfully treated with BV find their symptoms return, usually within three months. Women who have frequent episodes of BV may be referred to a GUM specialist.