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| Q1 |
What causes BV? |
Answer: The exact cause of the Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is not known. However, it is certain that it is not caused by a single germ. It is caused by the overgrowth of various bacteria produced in the vagina. Usually, a number of harmless germs reside in balance inside the vagina to protect it. BV seems to occur when this balance is disturbed. |
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| Q2 |
Is BV a sexually transmitted disease? |
Answer: BV is not a sexually transmitted disease. The partners of women who have BV do not need to seek treatment. However, BV may occur if you change a partner, or have multiple sex partners. Also, you are likely to be at greater risk if you do not use a condom when having sexual intercourse. The key point to remember is that you may have BV because you have disturbed the balance of bacteria in your vagina. In this respect, any woman can be affected, including those who are not sexually active. |
| Q3 |
Why do the symptoms keep coming back? |
Answer: It is common that BV will occur without any particular reasons, and at least 1 in 10 women experience BV at some point in their life. It is nearly impossible to prevent it from re-occurring. The best thing to remember for prevention is to try not to disturb the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina. |
| Q4 |
I am highly aware of hygiene and cleanliness so why to I have BV? |
Answer: The cause of BV is not poor hygiene. Excessive vaginal cleansing can be a contributing factor for the cause of BV, by disturbing the balance of the bacteria in the vagina. Also, avoid using bath oils, detergents and bubble bath. If you smoke, this can be an additional contributing factor. In addition, poor health and hot weather can also be contributing factors. If you have experienced menopause or suffer from diabetes, the risk of having BV is greater than normal. |
| Q5 |
Is it dangerous to have BV whilst pregnant? |
Answer: If you have BV whilst you are pregnant, it is necessary to get advice from the doctor for the best treatment, since it can increase your risk of developing some complications during pregnancy, such as miscarriage, premature birth, and infections in the uterus after delivery. |