Bacterial vaginosis is an imbalance of naturally occurring bacteria in the vagina. The American Pregnancy Association explains that about 10 to 30 percent of pregnant women will experience this infection during pregnancy. There are several ways a woman can develop bacterial vaginosis but it is not considered a sexually transmitted disease. Symptoms are not always obvious but a woman may notice a gray or whitish discharge that smells foul or fishy.
Intercourse
The American Pregnancy Association points out that the cause of vaginosis has not been clearly identified. Intercourse does not spread bacterial vaginosis but it may introduce various bacterium to the vagina resulting in an overgrowth of specific strains. Urinating and cleansing the vaginal area following intercourse can reduce the risk of infection.
Douching
Any type of vaginal douche can disrupt the normal bacteria composition in the vagina. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests avoiding douches to reduce the risk of a bacterial overgrowth.
Antibiotics
When a pregnant woman receives a prescription for antibiotics to treat some type of infection, she may present a greater risk of bacterial vaginosis. The antibiotic does not discriminate against healthy or harmful bacteria and can kill off healthy bacteria. When healthy bacteria disappear temporarily, the result can cause the increase of harmful bacteria in the vagina. During pregnancy, the immune system already responds differently to infection, making it even easier for the vaginal bacteria to get out of control.
