Bacterial Vaginosis: STD or Vaginal Infection?

Bacterial vaginosis (BV), one of the most common vaginal infections in the United States, is a condition in which the normal bacteria found in the vagina are disturbed and unhealthy bacteria grow rapidly as a result. Bacterial vaginosis is commonly diagnosed in pregnant women. Some common symptoms include painful burning, itching, abnormal gray discharge and a foul, fishy odor. Some women don't experience any symptoms and may not even know they have bacterial vaginosis.
Bacterial vaginosis is technically not considered a sexually transmitted disease (STD), because the factors associated with bacterial vaginosis are still unclear. However, the medical community reports that certain sexual activity--especially having sex with multiple partners--upsets the normal balance of healthy bacteria found within the vagina. However, women who have never had sex can still contract bacterial vaginosis.
Women who experience bacterial vaginosis symptoms should immediately consult a physician, since other sexually transmitted diseases produce similar symptoms.
Bacteria vaginosis is commonly treated with antibiotics such as metronidazole or clindamycin. The condition can be prevented through abstinence, limiting the number of sexual partners, not douching and taking all antibiotics prescribed by a medical practitioner. If left untreated, pregnant women could experience complications, including premature labor and uterus infections.