Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is often characterised by unusual vaginal discharge that typically has a strong fishy odour. Unlike other infections, it generally does not cause thick discharge. Find more about BV.

When to consult a doctor for bacterial vaginosis?

If symptoms persist or worsen

If you experience unusual vaginal discharge, odour, itching or discomfort that does not improve on its own or worsens over time, seek medical attention and get the right treatment for bacterial vaginosis.

If it is recurrent or causes discomfort

If the bacterial vaginosis symptoms keep coming back or cause discomfort, pain and interfere with your daily life, speak to a doctor to identify the underlying causes and provide long-term management.

If you have health risks or are pregnant

If BV develops during pregnancy, or if you have a weakened immune system or underlying conditions, consult a doctor promptly. Untreated BV in such cases can increase the risk of complications.

This guide does not replace professional care. Consult a doctor to manage your symptoms. In emergencies, call 000 or visit a hospital immediately. The content is research-backed & medically reviewed by Dr Vishnu Gopalan, MBBS, FRACGP, Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer, Hola Health

Causes and symptoms

Common symptoms include mild vaginal irritation, itching, or burning, along with increased vaginal sensitivity. Some patients also experience a burning sensation when urinating. Bacterial vaginosis causes could be:

Unprotected sex or having multiple sexual partners
Douching
Using scented soaps or vaginal washes
IUDs or other contraceptive devices
Smoking
Recent use of antibiotics

Prevention

The first step is to speak to a GP and complete the course of care or medication, if any. It is suggested to refrain from sex until recovered. Treat sexual partners if required. Avoid self-treatment. With a GP’s advice, some prevention methods for BV could include:

Avoid touching or using scented vaginal products.
Practice safe sex and use protection.
Maintain good vaginal hygiene and stay dry.
Wear breathable, cotton underwear.
Avoid tight clothing for long periods.
Limit multiple or new sexual partners.

Telehealth for Bacterial vaginosis

It is important to speak to a GP first to understand and manage your symptoms. Hola Health provides a convenient way to consult an AHPRA-registered doctor online, 24/7 across Australia.

Start your telehealth consult now

Clinical note: An online GP consult helps provide medical advice for your symptoms and evaluate if a face-to-face consultation or physical examination is needed. Online GPs can provide prescriptions, pathology referrals (for vaginal swabs), or medical certificates if clinically indicated. Telehealth is a complementary service; a physical examination and laboratory swab are the gold standard for a definitive diagnosis and to rule out other infections like Thrush or STIs. Diagnosis via telehealth is based on symptoms (syndromic) and relies on the accuracy of the information provided. Following recent Australian clinical evidence, your GP may discuss synchronised partner treatment to help reduce the risk of recurrence. In case of severe pelvic pain, high fever, or signs of serious pelvic infection, call 000 or visit a hospital immediately. If you are pregnant and notice unusual discharge, seek prompt medical assessment from your GP or midwife. We recommend sharing your consult summaries with your regular GP to ensure continuity of care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I require a physical exam to diagnose BV, or can it be done online? 

It depends. Mild or simple symptoms can occasionally be evaluated online, but some patients may still require an in-person examination or swab testing for a proper diagnosis. Telehealth does not substitute physical examinations when they are therapeutically essential. 