How does BV spread?

BV isn’t a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Any changes to the balance of bacteria in your vagina can cause BV. The causes may include:

• Douching
• Using vaginal deodorants
• Having sex with a new partner or multiple partners

Studies show that the treatment of your sex partner has no effect on whether or not you may get BV.

What are the symptoms of BV?

Symptoms may include:

• An increased amount of vaginal discharge, usually thin, watery and white or grayish in color.
• Discharge with a foul, unpleasant odor.  The odor is often stronger after sexual intercourse.
• Mild vaginal itching or irritation due to increased moisture accumulating in the genitals.

These symptoms may be similar to a yeast or a Trichomonas infection.  Many people with BV show no signs or symptoms.  BV does not cause pelvic pain, unusual bleeding or fever.

How is BV diagnosed?

The diagnosis is based on the appearance and microscopic examination of the vaginal discharge.  Your doctor may perform a pelvic exam or collect samples of vaginal fluid for lab tests.

How is BV treated?

Typically, only those with symptoms require treatment. BV may resolve on its own. The most effective treatment is the antimicrobial drugs, metronidazole or clindamycin.  These treatments are taken by mouth in pill form or inserted vaginally through a suppository. 

Don’t drink alcoholic beverages while taking metronidazole because even small amounts of alcohol may cause abdominal distress, nausea, vomiting, flushing or headaches.  Loose clothing, cotton underwear and good hygiene help reduce the irritating moisture. Even with treatment, it is common for BV to return.

What can happen if BV is left untreated?

For most people, BV does not cause other health problems. If left untreated, BV may increase your risk of:

• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including chlamydia, gonorrhea and HIV
• Pelvic inflammatory disease, which can cause inability to get pregnant and other pregnancy complications
• Premature (early) birth or infants with low birth weight , if pregnant

If someone with BV chooses to have an abortion, the BV should be treated prior to the procedure to reduce the risk of developing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

What causes a yeast infection?

Symptoms develop when more than the natural amount of yeast grows in the vagina. This overgrowth may occur without identifiable cause. However, the causes can include:

• Normal changes in hormone levels (during your menstrual cycle)
• Use of antibiotics, cortisone and other drugs
• Pregnancy
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• A weak immune system
• A natural reaction to another person’s genital chemistry

Yeast infections often occur during the week preceding a menstrual period.  Yeast can cause an infection for anyone with a vagina, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. People can also get a yeast infection on their mouth, throat or tongue.

What are the symptoms of a yeast infection?

The most common symptoms of a yeast infection include:

• Vaginal itching and burning, which is often worse at night
• Feelings of vaginal dryness or rawness
• Pain with sex
• Vaginal discharge

These infections do not affect fertility.

How is yeast diagnosed?

Yeast vaginitis is diagnosed by performing a pelvic exam or collecting samples of your vaginal fluid for lab tests.  These tests are most accurate when you have not used any vaginal medication for at least 48 hours.

Chlamydia, gonorrhea and bacterial vaginosis show similar symptoms to a yeast infection.  It is important for you to be diagnosed with a yeast infection to receive the appropriate medication for your symptoms.

It is also important to have an up-to-date screening for sexually transmitted infections for yourself and your most recent new sexual partner.

How is a yeast infection treated?

Yeast vaginitis is treated with antifungal vaginal cream or suppository, usually available over the counter.  Most of the vaginal creams or suppositories must be used for 3 to 7 nights to cure the infection.  The over-the-counter medications available for treating yeast infections are only effective for infections caused by Candida.  A prescription for oral medication is also available. 

While you are on treatment for a yeast infection, it is important to remember these tips:

• Finish all the medication recommended on the package or by your healthcare provider even if symptoms go away.
• Do not use tampons as they may absorb the medication and make it less effective.
• Do not douche as it may carry an infection deeper into the body.

How can I prevent or decrease my chances of getting a yeast infection?

• Take care of your personal hygiene. Keep the genital area dry, clean and cool.  Wear loose fitting cotton underclothing. Avoid wearing panty hose, tight jeans or pants, or wet bathing suits and damp gym clothing.
• Do not use hygiene sprays or deodorants, bath oils or salts, or scented sanitary pads or tampons.
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• Do not douche.

• Avoid using antibacterial soaps (i.e. Coast, Safeguard, Irish Spring, Dial, Lever 2000, etc.) in the genital area as they cause dryness and irritation to the mucus membrane surrounding the vaginal opening.
• Wipe from front to rear (away from the vagina) after a bowel movement.

Should sexual partners be treated for yeast?

If your sexual partner(s) have symptoms of a yeast infection, they should be treated.  However, yeast infections are not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI).  People who have never been sexually active can develop a yeast infection. 

Yeast infections affect penises and scrotums too, but it is less common.  If the penis shows symptoms of itching, rash, burning with urination or discharge, your partner should be evaluated for yeast.  Anyone with a vagina that has a sexual partner with a yeast infection should be evaluated for yeast.

Can I have sex with a yeast infection?

You should avoid having vaginal or oral sex until after you finish treatment and the infection goes away.  Sex may irritate vaginal tissue and increase inflammation and soreness. Yeast creams or suppositories may be oil-based which can weaken latex condoms, diaphragms and cervical caps.