bacterial vaginosis

Question 1

What is it?

Answer 1

overgrowth of organisms and loss of lactobacilli

vagina loses its normal acidity

pH increased to greater than 4.5

Question 2

RF

Answer 2

• Sexually active (NOT STI)
• Douches, deodorant, vaginal washes
• Menstruation
• Cu IUD
• Smoking

Question 3

symptoms

Answer 3

• 50% asymptomatic
• fishy smelling vagina discharge
• grey/white watery discharge
• not usually sore/itching/irritation

Question 4

treatment

Answer 4

REFER TO GP

oral metronidazole

Question 5

counselling

Answer 5

• avoid douches, deodorant, vaginal washes
• use water and plain soap to wash genital area
• avoid perfumes soaps/shower gels
• don’t put antiseptic liquids in the bath