Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Bacterial vaginosis, or BV, is the most common vaginal infection in women ages 15 to 44. It happens when the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina shifts. BV symptoms include thin, gray or white discharge and a fishy odor, though many women have no symptoms.

What Is It

Healthy vaginal bacteria keep other bacteria in check. Douching, scented products, a new partner, and multiple partners can upset that balance. BV is not considered an STI, and it is not caused by poor hygiene. Untreated BV can raise the risk of other infections and pregnancy problems.

Symptoms

Thin, gray, white, or green discharge
A fishy odor, often stronger after intimacy or a period
Mild itching or irritation
Burning with urination
No symptoms at all in many women

Not sure it’s BV? Itching with thick, white discharge and little odor is more likely a yeast infection. Burning with frequent urination may be a UTI.

Treatment

At your visit: A provider examines the area and may test a sample to confirm BV and rule out other infections. BV is treated with prescription antibiotic pills or gel. Male partners usually do not need treatment.

At home:

Take all of your medicine, even when symptoms clear
Avoid alcohol if your medicine says to
Skip douching, scented soaps, and vaginal sprays
Wear cotton underwear

Symptoms usually improve within 2 to 3 days of treatment. BV comes back in some women within a few months.

When to Get Care for BV

Watch at Home

No symptoms and a recent normal checkup
Improving on treatment you already started

Come to Urgent Care Today

A new discharge or odor
Symptoms that return after treatment
Symptoms during pregnancy
Burning, itching, or irritation that is not going away
Concern about other infections

Go to the Emergency Department

Fever with severe pelvic or belly pain
Severe pain or heavy bleeding during pregnancy
Fainting or a racing heart with pelvic pain

FAQ

What are the symptoms of BV?

The symptoms of BV include thin, gray or white discharge and a fishy odor that may be stronger after a period or intimacy. Many women have no symptoms.

What causes bacterial vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis is caused by a shift in the normal balance of vaginal bacteria. Douching, scented products, and new or multiple partners raise the risk.

Can BV go away on its own?

BV sometimes clears on its own, but it often lingers or comes back. Treatment is recommended for symptoms and during pregnancy.

Is BV an STI?

No, BV is not considered a sexually transmitted infection. It is an imbalance of normal bacteria, though it is more common with new or multiple partners.

Can urgent care treat BV?

Yes, urgent care can diagnose and treat BV. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can test a sample to confirm BV and discuss treatment. No appointment or referral is needed.

Why does my BV keep coming back?

BV comes back in many women within a few months. Avoiding douching and scented products helps. Frequent BV should be checked for a longer treatment plan.

Last reviewed October 2026