What are the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis

Symptoms of bacterial vaginosis include increased vaginal discharge, fishy-smelling leucorrhea, vulvar itching, burning sensation, and pain during sexual intercourse. Diagnosis usually needs to be made under the guidance of a doctor.

1. Increased vaginal discharge

Due to the infection of pathogenic bacteria, the microecology in the vagina is unbalanced, and the exudate increases under the stimulation of inflammation. The patient will have more vaginal secretions than normal, and the texture may be thin.

2. Fishy odor leucorrhea

Caused by an overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria that produce amines that have a putrid, fishy odor. Often accompanied by an unusual fishy odor, especially after sexual activity. Symptoms are usually felt in the vagina but may also spread to the vulva area.

3. Vulvar itching

Vulvar pruritus is an uncomfortable feeling caused by local skin inflammation. The pruritus mainly occurs near the vaginal opening and the vulva, and in severe cases it can affect sleep quality.

4. Burning sensation

The burning sensation is caused by toxins produced by the bacteria that irritate the vaginal mucosa. Women may feel a burning sensation inside the vagina, especially after urinating or using a tampon.

5. Pain during sexual intercourse

Pain during intercourse may be caused by increased sensitivity or damage to the vaginal wall due to inflammation. Pain usually occurs at the entrance to the vagina and worsens during intercourse, which may affect the patient's quality of sex life.

For bacterial vaginitis, vaginal secretion smear microscopy is recommended to evaluate changes in the microbial community, and vaginal secretion culture can be performed to identify specific pathogens. Treatment measures include oral antibiotics such as clindamycin or doxycycline as prescribed by the doctor. Patients should pay attention to personal hygiene, change and wash underwear frequently, avoid wearing tight and non-breathable clothes, and keep the affected area dry and clean.