Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common yet poorly understood condition, in which the balance of bacteria inside the vagina becomes disrupted.

BV doesn't usually cause any vaginal soreness or itching, but often causes unusual vaginal discharge. If you have the condition, your discharge may:
• Develop a strong fishy smell, particularly after sexual intercourse
• Become white or grey
• Become thin and watery
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BV can usually be successfully treated using a short course of antibiotic tablets .
In most cases, you'll be prescribed antibiotic tablets to take twice a day for five to seven days.
However, it's common for BV to return.

The causes of BV aren't fully understood, so it's not possible to completely prevent it. However, you may be able to lower your risk of developing the condition if you avoid:
• Using scented soaps, perfumed bubble bath and antiseptic bath liquids
• Using vaginal deodorant
• Vaginal douching
• Using strong detergents to wash your underwear

avoiding unsafe sex

If BV develops in pregnancy, it may increase the risk of pregnancy-related complications, such as premature birth or miscarriage.

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As a precaution, you should contact your GP or GUM clinic if you're pregnant and you begin to have vaginal discharge (although discharge can be a normal part of pregnancy).
Bacterial vaginosis can also increase your risk of getting some STIs

and is a risk to pelvic inflamatory disease .