What did your BV smell like?

Bacterial vaginitis (BV) can produce a fishy odor that is also accompanied by increased vaginal discharge, irritation, burning and sometimes itching. It is caused by an overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria that disrupts the balance of healthy bacteria that live within the vagina.

Does BV give off a smell?

Bacterial vaginosis is an overgrowth of bacteria typically present in the vagina. It's a common vaginal condition that can cause vaginal odor. Trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection, also can lead to vaginal odor. A yeast infection usually doesn't cause vaginal odor.

What does BV discharge look and smell like?

Off-white, grey or greenish color vaginal discharge (fluid). Discharge that smells "fishy." "Fishy" smell that is strongest after sex or during the menstrual cycle.

How long does the smell last with BV?

Bacterial vaginosis is an infection of the vagina that may cause a fishy-smelling discharge. It's usually a mild problem that may go away on its own in a few days.

How can I fix the smell of BV?

Hydrogen peroxide. Two small studies suggest using hydrogen peroxide solution as a vaginal wash may help clear up vaginal odor, improve discharge, and restore vaginal pH in patients with BV.

Pharmacist Explains Why Your “V” has a “Fishy” Odor ! It's Bacterial Vaginosis!

Can BV heal without treatment?

At times, BV will go away without treatment. However, treatment can help avoid the increased chance of some serious health risks associated with BV, including: Getting or transmitting HIV; Delivering your baby too early if you have BV while pregnant; and.

How do I know my BV is cured?

A sample (a swab) of the discharge in your vagina is taken. This is tested to check you no longer have BV.

Can BV stay forever?

Some women suffer from chronic (recurring) bacterial vaginosis. Medicine can clear up the infection, but it returns again after a few weeks. Some women report that bacterial vaginosis returns after their period each month. Or it can return after they have sex.

Can you permanently stop BV?

Bacterial vaginosis is a common infection, and there's no way to completely stop all infections. Still, you may be able to lower your risk of developing BV with good hygiene and taking care of your overall health. Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider if you're experiencing any of the symptoms of BV.

How long should it take for BV to clear up?

While the infection may go away on its own, most doctors use antibiotics to treat it. You may have been prescribed pills or vaginal cream. With treatment, bacterial vaginosis usually clears up in 5 to 7 days.

What happens if you have BV for too long?

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.

When should I worry about BV?

Make an appointment to see your doctor if: You have vaginal discharge that's new and associated with an odor or fever. Your doctor can help determine the cause and identify signs and symptoms. You've had vaginal infections before, but the color and consistency of your discharge seems different this time.

Which probiotic is best for BV?

Which probiotics are best for BV? Lactobacilli-based probiotics such as Lacticasebacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus fermentum, and Lactobacillus reuteri are best for treating BV.

Why do I keep getting BV from the same partner?

If you're in a long-term relationship with the same partner you may be on the pill or not using barrier contraceptives – so sex is very likely to trigger your BV. Don't be tempted to use intimate washes, perfumes or sprays to mask the symptoms as these can affect your balance as well and actually make things worse.

Does stress cause BV?

Any change in your immune health—like stress—can impact your vaginal pH level, making a yeast infection and/or bacterial vaginosis more common.

What does severe BV feel like?

Itching, burning, and pain in your vulva or vagina. Pain or discomfort during sex. Feeling like you have to pee more often than usual. Peeing may sting if your vulva is really irritated.

How serious can BV get?

Sometimes BV will go away without treatment, but not treating the infection can involve serious health risks. Untreated BV can increase a woman's risk of getting sexually transmitted infections, such as HIV, herpes, gonorrhea, and chlamydia.

What can cause BV to not go away?

Can BV clear up naturally?

For some women, mild cases of bacterial vaginosis will go away on their own. However, there are a few remedies you can try at home to relieve symptoms and speed your recovery. If you are unsure whether you have bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection, go see your doctor.

Is it normal to have BV for years?

Bacterial vaginosis is a common condition and treatment is available; however, in some women the condition may recur or even become chronic, requiring multiple and sometimes long-term treatments. Bacterial vaginosis is one type of vaginitis, or inflammation of the vagina.

How do you keep your PH balance healthy?

Is BV a hormone imbalance?

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and complicated vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) are frequently occurring vaginal infections in postmenopausal women, caused by an imbalance in vaginal microflora. Postmenopausal women suffer from decreased ovarian hormones estrogen and progesterone.