Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is one of the commonest causes of abnormal vaginal discharge in women worldwide.

Symptoms include abnormal discharge, which may range from whitish gray to yellow-green in colour, an unpleasant odour and some women have a mild degree of burning or irritation. Up to 50 % of women with BV are asymptomatic and it may be an incidental finding in screening tests.

Known risk factors for BV include recent new sex partners and douching.

BV is characterized by changes in the normal vaginal flora, in particular by reduction in or absence of hydrogen peroxide producing lactobacilli and by overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria (particularly Gardnerella vaginalis, Mycoplasma hominis and Mobiluncus sp.).

BV has been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes (especially preterm labour) and ascending infection following invasive gynaecological procedures (TOP and IUCD insertion). It also increases a woman’s risk of acquiring and transmitting STIs including HIV.