Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Bacterial Vaginosis is the most common cause of unusual vaginal discharge and develops when the normal environment of the vagina changes.
1 in 3 women will get it at some time. It is NOT a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and men do not get BV.
This infection can occur if you use perfume soaps, bubble bath or shower gel around the vagina and its symptoms may include a thin watery discharge, which appears white/grey and has a strong unpleasant fishy smell, especially after sex.
If you are diagnosed with a BV infection, you may have already been given treatment. If you haven’t and you have symptoms, you can either contact the booking and information Freephone number on 0800 328 3383 or alternatively you can purchase treatment over the counter from your local pharmacy. Your sexual partners DO NOT need to receive treatment.
For more information, you can also visit the Bacterial Vaginosis STI guide from the Family Planning Association.