Bacterial Vaginosis

GENERAL PRINCIPLES

The replacement of normal lactobacilli with anaerobic bacteria in the vagina leads to bacterial vaginosis (BV). Although not sexually transmitted, BV increases risk of STI and HIV infections.

DIAGNOSIS

Three of the following criteria are needed to make the diagnosis (Amsel criteria):

• Homogenous, thin, white discharge

• Presence of clue cells on microscopic examination

• Elevated vaginal pH (#8805;4.5)

• Fishy odor associated with vaginal discharge before or after addition of 10% potassium hydroxide (KOH) (whiff test)