Bacterial Vaginosis
Alternate Names : Gardnerella Vaginalis Vaginitis, Corynebacterium Vaginale Vaginitis, Nonspecific Vaginitis
Bacterial vaginosis is a swelling and irritation of the vaginal tissue.
What is going on in the body?
Bacterial vaginosis appears to be caused by an overgrowth of several types of bacteria, some requiring oxygen while others do not. While these bacteria are normally present in the vagina, an overgrowth may cause symptoms of irritation and inflammation.
What are the causes and risks of the disease?
It is not known for sure what causes this condition. It is probably caused by an overgrowth of certain bacteria that are normally present in the vagina.
Bacterial vaginosis that is left untreated or undiagnosed can cause more problems. For instance:
A woman having surgery to remove her uterus, called a hysterectomy, can develop an infection around the edge of the vagina if she has this condition.
A pregnant woman may have her membranes break early and go into premature labor if this condition is not treated.
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