Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal condition. This article explores both conditions and clarifies their relationship to kidney infections.
Bacterial Vaginosis Explained
Bacterial vaginosis is an imbalance in the natural bacteria found in the vagina. Beneficial lactobacilli normally keep other bacteria in check, but in BV, there is an overgrowth of certain bacteria, disrupting this balance.
While the exact causes of this bacterial shift are not fully understood, factors like douching, new or multiple sex partners, and hormonal changes can increase risk. BV is not an STI, but it is more common in sexually active individuals. Common symptoms include a thin, gray, white, or greenish vaginal discharge, often with a strong “fishy” odor, especially after sex. Some individuals may also experience vaginal itching or burning during urination. Many people with BV may not experience any symptoms at all.
Kidney Infections Explained
A kidney infection is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that has spread to one or both kidneys. These infections typically begin in the lower urinary tract, such as the urethra or bladder, and then ascend. The most common cause is bacteria, often E. coli, entering the urinary tract through the urethra.
Symptoms can develop rapidly, including fever, chills, back or side pain, nausea, vomiting, and painful or frequent urination. Urine might also appear cloudy, smell bad, or contain blood. Prompt medical treatment is important to prevent lasting kidney damage or the spread of bacteria into the bloodstream.
The Relationship Between BV and Kidney Infections
Bacterial vaginosis does not directly cause kidney infections. Kidney infections primarily result from bacteria ascending the urinary tract, usually from an untreated lower UTI. BV is a condition of the vaginal microbiome, distinct from the urinary tract system. While anatomically close, direct spread from the vagina to the kidneys is not the typical pathway.
However, some research suggests an indirect association between BV and urinary tract infections. BV can disrupt the normal vaginal flora, potentially making the urinary tract more susceptible to infection. Women with BV may have an increased risk of UTIs. Certain vaginal bacteria associated with BV, such as Gardnerella vaginalis, have been shown to trigger bacteria like E. coli to cause recurrent UTIs, and in rare cases, contribute to kidney infections. This is a multi-step process: BV might increase the likelihood of a UTI, and only then, if the UTI is not addressed, can it progress to a kidney infection.
Other Important Considerations for BV
While BV does not directly cause kidney infections, it is associated with other significant health implications. Untreated BV can increase susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. This increased risk is due to changes in the vaginal environment that make it easier for STI-causing pathogens to establish an infection.
BV is also linked to a higher risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), an infection of the reproductive organs that can lead to infertility if untreated. For pregnant individuals, BV can increase the risk of complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of BV are important for preventing these complications.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek medical advice if you suspect bacterial vaginosis or a kidney infection. For suspected BV, contact a healthcare professional if you experience new or unusual vaginal discharge, a strong or fishy odor, vaginal itching, or burning during urination. Many individuals with BV have no symptoms, but if symptoms are present and causing discomfort, evaluation is recommended.
For symptoms that could indicate a kidney infection, such as high fever, chills, severe back or side pain, nausea, vomiting, or persistent painful urination, seek prompt medical attention. These symptoms require timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent potential complications.