Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common bacterial infection of the vagina that occurs when the different kinds of healthy bacteria in the vagina get out of balance and grow too much. BV is often caused by gardnerella vaginalis, the most common type of bacteria in the vagina. The following are some of the factors that can increase the risk of getting BV:

• Sex: Semen impacts the pH level in the vagina, which can contribute to a higher rate of bacteria growth.
• Douching: Douching with vinegar or antiseptics causes inflammation and can increase the risk of infections. This also can eliminate some good bacteria.
• Having a new sex partner or multiple sex partners.
• Having a female partner.
• Not using condoms or dental dams.
• Having an intrauterine device (IUD).
• Smoking.
• Taking antibiotics.

It is important to note that BV is not a sexually transmitted infection, but having sex with a new partner, or multiple partners, may increase the risk of getting BV. BV is usually treated with antibiotics, either pills that you swallow or a gel or cream that you put in your vagina.