What causes multiple bacterial vaginosis?
BV is a result of an imbalance of “good” and “harmful” bacteria in a vagina. Douching, not using condoms, and having new or multiple sex partners can upset the normal balance of vaginal bacteria, increasing your risk for getting BV. We also do not know how sex causes BV.
What does Intermediate for BV mean?
A score of zero to three is considered to be normal, four to six is considered intermediate, and seven to ten is defined as BV. Intermediate vaginal flora is reported to the clinician for management based on the clinical context.
What happens if BV spreads?
Most often, BV does not cause other health problems. However, if left untreated, BV may increase your risk for: Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV. Pelvic inflammatory disease where BV bacteria infect the uterus or fallopian tubes.
What are the differential diagnosis for bacterial vaginosis?
The differential diagnosis includes infection with Trichomonas vaginalis and Candida albicans. A diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis may be made by the detection of three of the following: characteristic discharge, pH of 5 or greater, clue cells and a positive KOH amine test.
What is a whiff test?
The whiff test is a test for the fishy odor that occurs in bacterial vaginosis (previously called Gardnerella vaginitis and nonspecific vaginitis). A drop of KOH is mixed with some vaginal discharge. A positive test is abnormal and consists of a characteristic fishy odor.
Which bacteria is most commonly associated with bacterial vaginosis?
Gardnerella vaginalis is a facultatively anaerobic gram-variable rod. It has been demonstrated to cause a wide variety of infections; however, it is most commonly recognized for its role as one of the organisms responsible for bacterial vaginosis (BV).
What are the diagnostic criteria for bacterial vaginosis (BV)?
Clinical diagnosis of BV by Amsel criteria requires at least three of the following four symptoms or signs: Homogeneous, thin discharge (milklike consistency) that smoothly coats the vaginal walls Clue cells (e.g., vaginal epithelial cells studded with adherent bacteria) on microscopic examination pH of vaginal fluid >4.5
What is the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis?
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) Statistics. Bacterial vaginosis is the most common vaginal infection in women ages 15-44. Prevalence. Bacterial vaginosis is the most common cause of vaginal symptoms among women, but it is not clear what role sexual activity plays in the development of BV.
What is bacterial vaginosis?
Overview Bacterial vaginosis is a type of vaginal inflammation caused by the overgrowth of bacteria naturally found in the vagina, which upsets the natural balance. Women in their reproductive years are most likely to get bacterial vaginosis, but it can affect women of any age.
What are the possible complications of bacterial vaginosis (BV)?
Having bacterial vaginosis may increase the risk of developing a post-surgical infection after procedures such as hysterectomy or dilation and curettage (D&C). Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).