Bacterial vaginosis is a common, recurrent, and largely unknown vaginal infection. In order to better prevent and treat it, it is important to understand it well!

What is bacterial vaginosis?

As a woman, vaginal yeast (or fungal) infections, commonly referred to as "vaginitis", are probably familiar to you, either because you’ve already had them or heard about them. A vaginal infection can be caused by bacteria and not by a fungus: this is referred to as bacterial vaginosis.

A vaginal infection is sometimes indicative of the presence of a sexually transmitted infection (STI). It is crucial to treat a vaginal infection promptly, whatever its origin, to prevent it from getting worse.

What are the causes of bacterial vaginosis?

You have probably already heard the medical term "vaginal flora". Imagine that a woman's vagina is a garden where flowers and weeds constantly struggle to occupy the same space. The vagina houses many micro-organisms, commonly referred to as "microbes", some of which have a beneficial function (flowers), and others do not (weeds). It is important that this delicate balance be maintained to prevent "bad microbes" from taking over, causing infection.

A number of factors can increase the risk of having a bacterial vaginal infection. Here are a few examples:

• a hormonal imbalance
• excessive cleaning of the genital area
• the use of certain products (such as soap)
• having several sexual partners
• taking antibiotics
• wearing an intrauterine device (IUD), and
• smoking

What are the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis?

It is possible for a woman affected by bacterial vaginosis to have no particular signs or symptoms. Manifestations of bacterial vaginosis include:

• a foul-smelling fishy vaginal odour
• watery discharge
• a greyish-white discharge
• vaginal pain or burning sensation, especially during intercourse
• exacerbation of manifestations after intercourse

How can bacterial vaginosis be treated?

If you think you may have a vaginal infection, see a doctor promptly to obtain a diagnosis. It is important to identify the type of infection in order to adequately treat it. If it is bacterial vaginosis, an antibiotic treatment will likely be prescribed. There are over-the-counter treatments available to ease the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis. Consult your pharmacist before turning to such a treatment. It is important to never begin treatmentA for a vaginal infection without an accurate diagnosis or medical advice.

There is an over-the-counter test available on the market that can be done at home to detect vaginal infections. This easy-to-use test can tell if vaginal symptoms are likely to be caused by a bacterial or parasitic infection. This helps guide further treatment. Seek the advice of your pharmacist before carrying out this type of test.

How can recurrences be prevented?

Bacterial vaginosis is an infection that tends to come back. To counter this tendency, certain measures should be taken:

• Avoid irritants, such as vaginal douches or powders. Choose a gentle cleanser for which the pH is adapted to the vagina.
• Try to limit your sexual partners.
• Change into dry underwear after swimming or after intense exercise.
• Change your tampon or sanitary napkin frequently during your period. Use fragrance-free products.
• Quit smoking.
• If you have a tendency for repeated bacterial infections, consider taking probiotics, as they help restore the balance of the vaginal flora. Because there are several probiotic formulations, ask your pharmacist to help you make the right choice, based on product quality and scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness.

You should never feel uncomfortable addressing any health issue with your pharmacist, who can provide you with valuable and confidential advice.