What is Bacterial Vaginosis?
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection resulting from an imbalance of naturally occurring bacteria in the vagina. A healthy vagina maintains a balance where “good” bacteria, primarily lactobacilli, outnumber other types. In BV, there is an overgrowth of certain “bad” bacteria, leading to a disruption of this delicate microbial environment. BV is not considered a sexually transmitted infection, but it is more common in sexually active individuals and can increase the risk of acquiring other STIs.
Common symptoms of BV include unusual vaginal discharge that may be thin, gray, white, or green. This discharge often has a strong, “fishy” odor, which can become more noticeable after sexual intercourse. Some individuals may also experience vaginal itching or irritation, and occasionally a burning sensation during urination. Many people with bacterial vaginosis (up to 84%) experience no symptoms. Globally, the prevalence of BV among women of reproductive age ranges from 23% to 29%.
What is Urinary Urgency?
Urinary urgency is characterized by a sudden, compelling need to urinate that is difficult to postpone. This sensation often feels like an immediate demand to find a restroom, leaving little time to reach one. The urge can be intense and may sometimes be accompanied by discomfort or a feeling of pressure in the bladder.
While urinary frequency refers to needing to urinate more often than usual, urgency specifically describes the sudden and strong nature of the need. It can be a standalone symptom or part of a broader set of urinary issues. This sensation can impact daily life, leading to anxiety about access to bathrooms.
The Link Between BV and Urinary Urgency
Bacterial vaginosis itself does not cause urinary urgency directly. While BV can lead to symptoms such as burning during urination, this is often due to vaginal irritation rather than a direct bladder issue. The inflammation and irritation associated with BV are primarily localized to the vaginal area. However, the close proximity of the vagina to the urinary tract can sometimes lead to a perceived urinary urgency or discomfort that might be confused with bladder symptoms.
There can be symptom overlap between BV and urinary tract infections (UTIs), which are a common cause of urinary urgency. Both conditions can manifest with burning during urination, and sometimes an abnormal odor. This overlap can make it challenging for individuals to distinguish between the two conditions without medical evaluation. For instance, while BV primarily affects the vagina, UTIs affect the urinary tract and frequently cause a strong, persistent urge to urinate.
BV and UTIs can sometimes occur together, which might lead to confusion regarding the source of urinary symptoms. Research indicates that certain bacteria associated with BV, like Gardnerella vaginalis, may contribute to recurrent UTIs. This suggests an indirect relationship where BV could create an environment that increases susceptibility to UTIs, which then cause urinary urgency. While BV does not directly cause bladder urgency, its presence might be associated with conditions that do.
Other Reasons for Urinary Urgency
Urinary urgency can stem from various causes beyond bacterial vaginosis, with urinary tract infections (UTIs) being a common one. UTIs, which are infections in any part of the urinary system, frequently cause a strong, persistent urge to urinate, often accompanied by a burning sensation during urination. Another cause is overactive bladder (OAB), a condition where bladder muscles contract involuntarily, creating a sudden and difficult-to-control urge to urinate, even when the bladder is not full. OAB symptoms include urgency, frequent urination (eight or more times in 24 hours), and sometimes nighttime awakenings to urinate.
Other conditions that can lead to urinary urgency include interstitial cystitis, a chronic bladder condition causing bladder pain and pressure. Certain medications, such as diuretics, can increase urine production and therefore lead to more frequent and urgent urination. Diabetes can also impact bladder health, with uncontrolled blood sugar levels sometimes causing frequent and urgent urination. Nerve damage from conditions like diabetes or multiple sclerosis can disrupt the signals between the brain and bladder, resulting in urgency.
Pelvic floor dysfunction, where the pelvic muscles are too tight or in spasm, can irritate the urethra and bladder, contributing to urgency. Pregnancy commonly causes urinary urgency due to hormonal changes and increased pressure on the bladder. Lifestyle factors, such as consuming caffeine or alcohol, can also act as bladder irritants and increase the urgency to urinate.
When to Consult a Doctor
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience new, persistent, or concerning urinary symptoms. Self-diagnosis is not recommended, as symptoms can overlap between different conditions. A medical professional can accurately diagnose the underlying cause of urinary urgency through proper evaluation. This may involve a physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests.
Seeking medical attention is particularly important if urinary urgency is accompanied by other symptoms. These “red flag” signs include fever, severe pain, blood in the urine, cloudy urine, or an inability to urinate despite the urge. A healthcare provider can determine whether your symptoms are due to an infection, an overactive bladder, or another condition requiring specific treatment. Receiving a proper diagnosis ensures that you get the most appropriate and effective treatment plan.