Andy Montoya
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection caused by an imbalance in the vagina's flora. It is characterised by a fishy smell, which can be likened to the odour of rotting fish due to the chemical compound trimethylamine. While BV does not typically cause vaginal irritation or itchiness, it can increase the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections and may have implications for pregnancy. Therefore, it is important to seek medical care and finish the prescribed course of antibiotics to treat the infection effectively.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Smell | Fishy, chemical, rotting fish, decomposing fish, foul-smelling |
| Cause | Bacterial infection, an imbalance of vaginal flora, high levels of Gardnerella vaginalis bacteria |
| Treatment | Antibiotics, prescribed by a healthcare provider |
| Other symptoms | Vaginal discharge, vaginal itching or irritation, a burning feeling when urinating |
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What You'll Learn
- Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina
- The hallmark sign of BV is discharge with a fishy smell
- A whiff test is used to detect the fish-like smell of BV
- A strong ammonia smell in the vagina may be caused by dehydration
- Trichomoniasis is another infection that can cause a fishy smell
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common infection caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina. The vagina is home to multiple types of bacteria, and a change in the balance of this bacteria can cause BV. Specifically, BV occurs when "bad" bacteria (anaerobes) grow more quickly than "good" bacteria (lactobacilli). This imbalance can lead to an overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria, which are odorous and can cause a fishy smell.
The hallmark sign of BV is a discharge with a "fishy" smell, which can be detected through a whiff test. This fishy odour is often described as similar to rotting fish or decomposing fish, due to the presence of the chemical compound trimethylamine. The discharge may also have a white or grey colour. Other symptoms of BV can include vaginal itching or irritation and a burning feeling when urinating. It is important to note that BV does not typically cause vaginal irritation or itchiness, which are more commonly associated with yeast infections.
The vaginal scent can vary due to various factors such as the menstrual cycle, hormones, personal vaginal flora, and hygiene habits. A slightly tangy or sour aroma, similar to fermented foods like yogurt, sourdough bread, and some sour beers, is considered normal and is due to the presence of the "good" lactobacilli bacteria. However, an unpleasant or abnormal odour that doesn't go away may indicate an underlying condition such as BV or other vaginal infections.
Certain activities can increase the risk of developing BV, including douching and unprotected sex. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, adequate hydration, and wearing loose-fitting clothing, can help prevent unpleasant vaginal odours and maintain a healthy vaginal flora. If you experience prolonged abnormal vaginal odour or other symptoms such as discharge, burning, or itching, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
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The hallmark sign of BV is discharge with a fishy smell
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an infection caused by an imbalance in the vagina's flora. The most common sign of BV is discharge with a "fishy" smell. This is due to an overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria in the vagina, which produces a strong odour. While it is natural for vaginas to have a slight tang or sour aroma, the fishy smell associated with BV is often described as similar to rotting fish or decomposing organisms.
Discharge with a fishy odour is the hallmark sign of BV. This type of discharge is typically white or grey in colour and may become more noticeable after sexual intercourse. It is important to note that discharge from yeast infections may look similar, like cottage cheese, but it usually does not have a strong smell. Vaginal itching or irritation is more commonly associated with yeast infections than with BV.
If you are experiencing prolonged abnormal vaginal odour or a fishy smell that persists, it is recommended to see a healthcare provider. They may perform a pelvic exam, during which they will place gloved fingers inside your vagina to look for signs of infection, such as an increase in discharge or foul-smelling discharge. A whiff test may also be performed, where the healthcare provider will smell the vaginal discharge for a fish-like odour.
The vaginal pH can also be measured to determine if you have BV. A higher pH may indicate the presence of BV. Treatment for BV typically involves antibiotics, such as metronidazole or clindamycin, which are prescribed by a healthcare provider. It is important to finish the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if your symptoms go away, to reduce the risk of recurrence.
In summary, the hallmark sign of BV is discharge with a fishy smell. This is due to an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina, specifically an overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria. While vaginal odour can vary and is influenced by factors such as the menstrual cycle, hormones, and personal vaginal flora, a persistent fishy smell is indicative of BV and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
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A whiff test is used to detect the fish-like smell of BV
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an infection caused by an imbalance in the amount of bacteria in the vagina. The most common sign of BV is a discharge with a fishy smell, particularly after sex. This discharge is usually without significant irritation, pain, or redness, although mild itching can sometimes occur.
BV is not considered a sexually transmitted infection and, unlike gonorrhoea and chlamydia, sexual partners are not treated. However, it is often confused with a yeast infection or an infection with Trichomonas. The most common cause of abnormal vaginal odour is high levels of Gardnerella vaginalis bacteria, which cause the fishy smell associated with BV.
The other three parts of the Amsel criteria are a vaginal pH greater than 4.5, milky discharge, and the presence of clue cells on microscopic examination of vaginal fluid. Clue cells are epithelial cells that are coated with bacteria. Vaginal pH is usually normal (4.0 to 4.5). A higher pH may indicate BV.
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A strong ammonia smell in the vagina may be caused by dehydration
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection caused by an imbalance in the bacteria in the vagina. The hallmark sign of BV is a discharge with a "fishy" smell. However, some people describe the smell as more chemical-like, similar to ammonia. Other symptoms of BV include itching, irritation, a burning feeling when urinating, and a gray vaginal discharge.
While BV can cause an ammonia-like smell, there are other potential causes to consider. Dehydration, for example, can lead to a strong ammonia smell in the vagina. When the body is dehydrated, waste products in the urine become more concentrated, resulting in a stronger ammonia odour. This can be addressed by increasing water intake, which helps with hydration and can eliminate the odour.
Additionally, dietary factors can influence vaginal odour. Certain foods, such as garlic, onions, asparagus, and high-protein foods, can cause a strong ammonia smell in urine, which may then affect the vaginal area. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are another potential cause of an ammonia smell, especially during pregnancy.
It is important to note that a strong, persistent, and unpleasant vaginal odour, particularly when accompanied by other symptoms like discharge, burning, or itching, may indicate an underlying health issue. In such cases, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Trichomoniasis is another infection that can cause a fishy smell
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an infection caused by an imbalance in the amount of bacteria in the vagina. The most common sign of BV is a discharge with a "fishy" smell. Vaginal discharge that smells like cheese could be a sign of bacterial vaginosis.
It is important to note that other infections, such as yeast infections, can also cause a change in vaginal discharge. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare provider to determine the exact cause of any unusual vaginal odor or discharge.
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Frequently asked questions
BV stands for bacterial vaginosis, a common vaginal infection caused by changes in the amount of bacteria in the vagina.
BV is often associated with a "fishy" smell, but some have described it as a chemical smell akin to rotting fish. While this is not the same as cheese, it is possible that different people interpret the smell in different ways, so it may be described as cheesy by some.
The hallmark sign of BV is discharge with a strong odour. Vaginal itching or irritation, and a burning feeling when you pee, are also common symptoms. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you should see a healthcare provider.
Your healthcare provider will likely prescribe antibiotics, typically metronidazole or clindamycin, in the form of a gel, cream, or pills.
