Bacterial vaginosis is a common vaginal infection that affects women. This infection arises when the normal bacterial balance within the vaginal is disrupted. Though health professionals at the Cleveland Clinic warn that up to 50 percent of women do not experience side effects of bacterial vaginosis, affected women should seek medical care from a physician.
Discolored Vaginal Discharge
The most common side effect associated with bacterial vaginosis is the appearance of unusual, discolored vaginal discharge. Affected women can develop profuse vaginal discharge that is white or gray in color, explain medical experts with Patient UK. Increased vaginal discharge is typically most noticeable after a woman has sexual intercourse or at the end of her monthly menstrual cycle.
Fishy Vaginal Odor
Women who develop bacterial vaginosis can notice a strong, unpleasant fishy odor emitted from their vaginal discharge, notes UpToDate. This odor can be embarrassing and is often strongest after a man ejaculates inside an affected woman's vagina during sexual intercourse.
Vaginal Itching
Excess vaginal discharge due to bacterial vaginosis can irritate or inflame the sensitive tissue that lines the outside of a woman's vagina. Affected women can experience uncomfortable vaginal itching as a side effect of this infection, according to health professionals with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Persistent or severe vaginal itching should be discussed with a medical professional as it can also be a symptom of a vaginal yeast infection.
Vaginal Pain or Tenderness
Women with bacterial vaginosis can experience vaginal soreness, pain or tenderness as side effects of infection, report health professionals with the Cleveland Clinic. Vaginal pain can be uncomfortable and may make it difficult for a woman to sit or stand for long periods of time. In certain cases, a woman can develop uncomfortable burning sensations during urination, explains the CDC. These side effects of bacterial vaginosis should be reported to a medical professional as soon as possible.
