Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is caused by an imbalance in the natural bacteria of the vagina. Normally, "good" bacteria called lactobacilli dominate and keep the vaginal environment healthy. BV occurs when these lactobacilli decrease and "bad" anaerobic bacteria, including Gardnerella vaginalis and others, overgrow, disrupting the balance
. The exact cause of this bacterial imbalance is not fully understood. However, several factors are known to increase the risk of developing BV:
- Sexual activity, especially having new or multiple sex partners, though BV is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection. It can also occur in women who have not had sex
- Douching or washing inside the vagina, which disrupts the natural cleaning and bacterial balance
- Use of intrauterine devices (IUDs) for contraception
- Use of perfumed or irritating products around the vagina
- Having a female sexual partner may also increase risk due to possible bacterial transmission
- Other contributing factors may include smoking, frequent bathing, stress, and use of intravaginal hygiene products
In summary, bacterial vaginosis results from a shift in vaginal flora where protective lactobacilli decrease and anaerobic bacteria proliferate, triggered by behaviors or conditions that disturb the vaginal environment
