Your very personal health: intimate issues

Bacterial vaginosis

What is it? The most common vaginal condition in women of childbearing age, BV occurs when the balance of normal bacteria (lactobacilli) in the vagina is disturbed.

Symptoms: The symptoms are similar to those of a yeast infection (such as a strong-smelling discharge) though typically milder. Researchers aren't sure what causes the bacterial imbalance that leads to bacterial vaginosis, but it does tend to occur in younger women who are very sexually active and those who have an inter-uterine contraceptive device (IUD).

Treatment: A course of the antibiotic metronidazole, taken twice a day for seven days, prescribed by your GP - it clears it up in about 70 per cent of cases. Most episodes occur for no apparent reason. However, to prevent further attacks, try to maintain a normal balance of vaginal bacteria by avoiding bath oils and bubble baths and over-washing the vaginal area. Gently splash with water rather than douching (rinsing the vagina out with water) to avoid a recurrence.

Visit www.fpa.org.uk or contact the Family Planning Association on 0845 122 8690 for more information.