Bacterial Vaginosis Symptoms
Bacterial vaginosis has more than one symptom, which are categorized as primary and secondary. You should be aware of the symptoms and never ignore any of these symptoms as the condition can lead to other health problems. The truth is that many times, Bacterial vaginosis was not diagnosed after a pelvic exam and some women may not experience the symptoms to large degrees. Thus, even the smallest symptom should be reported to your physician or the proper treatment should be used.
Bacterial Vaginosis Primary Symptoms
- Vaginal discharge: The discharge is usually yellow or green, but some women have noticed a gray or even white discharge with BV.
- Vaginal odor: The odor is the most common and noticeable symptom which smells fishy. If you notice this odor, you have Bacterial vaginosis and need to seek treatment.
- After sexual activity: The vaginal discharge will be increased with the same odor.
Bacterial vaginosis Secondary Symptoms
- Swollen vagina
- Vaginal itch
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Urination is painful
- Burning sensation in the vagina
- Irritation of the vagina
If you notice one or both of the primary symptoms especially the odor along with two or three of the secondary symptoms you have bacterial vaginosis and need to seek treatment.
Can bacterial vaginosis cause continuing problems?
The answer is yes! Bacterial vaginosis can move up from the vagina and into the womb. From here, the infection can move to the fallopian tube, which brings on pelvic inflammatory disease. Pelvic inflammatory disease can lead to infertility. In some cases, bacterial vaginosis has been the cause of miscarriages late in pregnancy and premature labor.
The odor alone can bring on depression and cause you to want to stay away from others, which can cause all kinds of problems for your social activities. Since bacterial vaginosis is painful during intercourse and you do not want your partner to smell the odor, your relationship can also suffer. Your partner may not understand why you are pushing him away and may believe it is his fault.
Curing bacterial vaginosis is essential instead of just a temporary solution.
