[Bacterial Vaginosis - CDC Fact Sheet] [Bacterial Vaginosis - CDC Fact Sheet]

This information sheet discusses bacterial vaginosis (BV), a condition in which the vagina experiences an overgrowth of certain bacteria, and which often causes pain, discharge, odor, and itching or burning. The information sheet provides statistics on the incidence of the disease in the U.S. and describes the signs and symptoms, complications, effect on a pregnant woman and her baby, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Bacterial vaginosis can increase a woman's susceptibility to HIV and her ability to transmit HIV to a partner. Contact information is provided for accessing the services of national health organizations.