Bacterial Vaginosis - what it is, how you prevent it, and how to treat it
Back
NSW Government
  • A
  • A

Visit the blog

What is a dental dam? How to use them and where to find them

Exploring the benefits and purpose of a dental dam Dental dams may not be trending across social media but could this lesser-known barrier method be a good option for you? What is a dental dam? A dental dam is a thin, stretchy piece of latex or polyurethane that can be […]

Been diagnosed with an STI? Now what?

If you’ve been diagnosed with a sexually transmissible infection (STI), you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed, worried or unsure about what’s next. It might seem scary but getting an STI is not the end of the world. In fact, 4 million people in Australia will get an STI at […]

Why we love lube (and you will too)

Have you ever been having sex and noticed that things were getting a bit…dry? It happens to the best of us and there’s a super easy solution. ENTER: lube. Honestly, lube does not get the love and attention it deserves. Not only can lube make sex feel more comfortable, but […]

Visit the blog

What is a dental dam? How to use them and where to find them

Exploring the benefits and purpose of a dental dam Dental dams may not be trending across social media but could this lesser-known barrier method be a good option for you? What is a dental dam? A dental dam is a thin, stretchy piece of latex or polyurethane that can be […]

Been diagnosed with an STI? Now what?

If you’ve been diagnosed with a sexually transmissible infection (STI), you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed, worried or unsure about what’s next. It might seem scary but getting an STI is not the end of the world. In fact, 4 million people in Australia will get an STI at […]

Why we love lube (and you will too)

Have you ever been having sex and noticed that things were getting a bit…dry? It happens to the best of us and there’s a super easy solution. ENTER: lube. Honestly, lube does not get the love and attention it deserves. Not only can lube make sex feel more comfortable, but […]

Talking to your doctor about sexual health

Does the thought of talking to your doctor about sexual health give you butterflies or send a shiver down your spine?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Here’s our top tips to make chatting to your doctor about sex a whole lot easier.

Are there any symptoms?

Bacterial Vaginosis often has no symptoms and goes away spontaneously about 50% of the time

You may have white or grey discharge coming from your vagina. Sometimes it can smell ‘fishy’

How can you prevent Bacterial Vaginosis?

  • Never wash inside your vagina – it’s self-cleaning
  • Don’t use smelling oils, soaps, gels or creams on your vagina as it can change the level of healthy bacteria
  • If you have your period, change your sanitary pads and tampons every 4-6 hours
  • Make sure you clean your sex toys after using them
  • Use condoms on penises and shared sex toys — semen may disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and BV can be passed in vaginal fluid

Bacterial Vaginosis isn’t an STI

Testing and treatment for Bacterial Vaginosis

If you have symptoms a doctor or nurse will take a swab from your vagina to test for Bacterial Vaginosis. If you do have Bacterial Vaginosis, your doctor will prescribe antibiotic tablets or vaginal gel. Go to your local GP, or find your nearest clinic here.

More about Common STIs

    YesNo

    Could I have an STI?

    Take our 30 second quiz to find out

    Where can I get tested?

    Find a testing location

    Got a sticky question?

    Ask Nurse Nettie

    Got a sticky question?

    Ask Nurse Nettie

    Stay in touch

    Signup to our email or follow us on social for tips on all things sex and relationships