How common is a bacterial vaginosis infection? Some family planning and sexual health advisors say that around 30 percent of women will experience a problem at some time in their life. Is it serious? From the point of view of affecting the quality of a woman's life, yes! As to whether it can lead to major health problems, it is unlikely, although it could in the case of pregnant women.

To analyze this subject we will use a five question format, what, why, where, when and how.

What Is A Bacterial Vaginosis Infection?

A woman's vagina is home to a variety of bacteria, mostly good. When the unhealthy bacteria grow in number and overpower the good bacteria problems can result. In other words, a bacterial vaginosis infection describes a condition in which the normal balance of bacteria is disturbed.

The result of a bacterial vaginosis infection can be an abnormal vaginal discharge that has a very unpleasant odor. It can also create a burning sensation when passing urine, and many women report a problem with itching in and around the vagina. Sexual intercourse can make the vagina sore and the resulting combination of semen and vaginal discharge can produce a fishy smell.

Why Does It Happen?

This question is tricky. Medical scientists do not yet know the full range of factors that contribute to a bacterial vaginosis infection. One thing they do know - it is more common in women who have multiple sexual partners, or who have started a relationship with a new partner.

The practice of douching can also be a factor. Douching is the practice of spraying a water solution in the vagina for hygiene reasons. However, many medical health professionals warn against the practice as frequent douching can upset the normal pH balance in the vagina and contribute to bacterial vaginosis.

Where Can You Get It?

It's probably easier to say where you probably won't get it. Places you don't need to worry about are: swimming pools, toilet seats, and bedding. It isn't just sexually active women who are affected. Virgins can also be affected. Women who have female partners are at risk as it can be spread between women.

When Should You Be Concerned?

As soon as you realize you have an abnormal vaginal discharge that is foul smelling, get it checked out, especially if you are pregnant. Or if you have persistent itching and sensitivity in the vagina, go to a professional health advisor who may decide to carry out some simple tests to identify the cause of the condition.

A bacterial vaginosis infection can pose a serious threat to an expectant mother. The infection can spread to the uterus and fallopian tubes. This is known as PID - Pelvic Inflammatory Disease. It can lead to infertility or an Ectopic pregnancy where a fertilized egg grows outside the uterus which can lead to further complications that may even be life-threatening.

A bacterial vaginosis infection can make women more susceptible to HIV and a range of STD's such as herpes, chlamydia and gonorrhea. So a woman needs to take speedy action if she notices the tell-tale symptoms in the vagina area.

How Is A Bacterial Vaginosis Infection Treated?

Many doctors prescribe anti-biotics. These may stop the condition initially but there is a danger of a recurring infection.

Some natural home remedies include douching with solutions containing hydropgen peroxide or grapefruit seed extract to try and restore the normal pH balance inside the vagina. Suppositories containing tea tree oil or acidophilus are also used. Many prefer to consult with a professional medical practitioner however as treating the condition at home could lead to further complications.

So coming back to our main question, is a bacterial vaginosis infection that serious? For the majority of women, probably not, although it certainly is not very pleasant and can impact the quality of life. If a women is pregnant then it should be taken very seriously as it can lead to complications at birth which in turn can lead to a life threatening situation. Ignoring symptoms can lead to more serious problems. As with any sign of bodily malfunction, it is wise to get it checked out by a professional.