While key factors associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV) have been identified, the exact cause of the condition is a mystery to doctors. An imbalance in bacteria normally found in the vagina is the main reason that the condition develops. Typically, the vagina contains more “good” bacteria than “harmful” bacteria. When the harmful bacteria increase, the pH balance of the vaginal region becomes compromised. Bacterial vaginosis is a common result.
Causes of Bacterial Vaginosis
In the past, bacterial vaginosis was called Gardnerella vaginitis because Gardnerella was the type of bacteria often identified as the cause of the infection [1]. Another type of bacteria associated with BV includes anaerobic bacteria – the kind that doesn’t need oxygen to thrive and grow.
Bacterial vaginosis does not discriminate. Any woman can develop the condition, but some activities and lifestyle choices can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina. Women face an increased risk of bacterial vaginosis when they:
• Have multiple sex partners
• Have recently changed sex partners
• Have an increase of anaerobic bacteria in vagina
• Hygiene products made with chemicals that irritate the vagina
• Smoke cigarettes
• Douche, which changes the pH level in the vagina
• Use an intrauterine device (IUD) for birth control
Additional factors that can lead to bacterial vaginosis include taking medications, such as antibiotics. Other prescriptions associated with the condition include oral contraceptives for birth control and steroids. Your current health also plays a role. For example, if you have a weakened immune system or diabetes, you are more likely to face BV.
Bacterial vaginosis is often viewed as a sexually transmitted disease, but women do not contract the condition in this manner. Instead of a disease that passes from one person to another, sex simply transfers various bodily fluids that have the potential to affect the flora in the vagina. Although less common, it is important to note that women who have not had sexual intercourse can still develop bacterial vaginosis.
Bacterial vaginosis is not contagious. Therefore, sharing the same objects with an infected woman does not transfer the condition. You cannot contract BV from toilet seats, linens, swimming pools, or from touching items close to such objects [2].
Resources
[1] http://www.emedicinehealth.com/bacterial_vaginosis/article_em.htm
[2] http://www.cdc.gov/std/bv/stdfact-bacterial-vaginosis.htm
