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Infections

BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS

Vaginal discharge in women can be a perfectly normal "physiological" occurrence or caused by infections. Not all infections are sexually transmitted. If you are unsure it is important to have a check-up. Bacterial Vaginosis is a very common vaginal infection. It is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria that normally exist in the vagina. It cannot be passed to a man.

Signs and Symptoms

There may be none. However, there may be a change in your vaginal discharge - it may increase, become thin and watery, change colour and/or develop a strong fishy smell.

How Bacterial Vaginosis develops

It occurs when the acidity of the vagina changes. This can be caused by

  • Semen entering vagina during unprotected sex
  • Douching and washing out the vagina
  • Using too much soap/bubble bath/vaginal deodorants

Tests for Bacterial Vaginosis

This involves a genital examination by a doctor. Swabs are taken from the vagina and the acidity can be measured using pH paper. The test is not normally painful.

Diagnosis and Treatment

The diagnosis is made by looking at a specimen of discharge under the microscope in our laboratory. The result is usually available immediately.

Treatment is easy - antibiotic tablets or a cream to put inside the vagina will be prescribed from our pharmacy. The tablets are called "Metronidazole" (trade name Flagyl) and the cream is called "Clindamycin" (trade name Dalacin).

If it is possible that you are pregnant it is important to tell the doctor. Bacterial Vaginosis is a possible cause of miscarriage.

It is important to finish the course of treatment

It is possible to have a sexually transmitted infection in addition to Bacterial Vaginosis - this why it is important to have an examination and full range of tests

The evidence linking bacterial vaginosis with early miscarriage is limited, nevertheless common sense dictates that treatment of "BV" under these circumstances is advisable. It is important to note that the standard course of treatment: Metronidazole antibiotics at a dose of 400mg twice daily has not been shown to be harmful to unborn babies. As always, anyone taking Metronidazole must not consume alcohol until 48 hours after the treatment is finished.
Appointments available Mon - Sat from 8am

Call London on:

0207 291 6677

Call Manchester on:

0161 834 5888

Tests available include:

  • HIV
  • Bacterial Vaginosis
  • Chlamydia
  • Genital Warts
  • Gonorrhoea
  • Hepatitis B & C
  • Herpes Simplex virus
  • Human Papilloma Virus
  • Non-specific urethritis (NSU)
  • Syphilis
  • Urinary infections

Treatment available for impotence and erection problems

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