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Bacterial vaginosis is a common type of vaginal inflammation caused by the overgrowth of bacteria called gardnerella vaginalis naturally found in the vagina. When this happens the pH of the vagina increases.
It can affect women of any age but is most common in women of reproductive age. Common symptoms include a thin grey, white or green vaginal discharge, a “fishy” vaginal odour, vaginal itching, or burning during urination. Half of all women with bacterial vaginosis do not have any symptoms.
Bacterial vaginosis can be sexually transmitted. If you’ve recently been intimate with a new partner you might want to test for common sexually transmitted diseases or attend a sexual health clinic.
Other possible causes of an increased vaginal pH are candida (thrush) and trichomoniasis. Further testing may be needed in the event of a positive result.
