HealthInfo Waitaha Canterbury
Bacterial vaginosis (BV, gardnerella)
Mate huakita ā-tara
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is caused by an overgrowth of bugs (bacteria) that are normally found in the vagina in small numbers. It is not passed on during sex.
BV may cause an increase in discharge from the vagina, or an unusual smell.
You can be tested for BV with a vaginal swab.
If BV is causing symptoms, it's treated with antibiotics.
If you have any vaginal symptoms, it's important to get checked by your GP, Sexual Health Centre or Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa Clinic in case you have a more serious sexually transmitted disease (STI).
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
- Just the Facts – Bacterial vaginosis
Information about bacterial vaginosis, including its symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.
See also:
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed September 2021.
Review key: HIVVC-53223
