Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) does not cause Chlamydia. BV results from an imbalance in vaginal bacteria, while Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a specific bacterium.
What is Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)?
Bacterial vaginosis is a common vaginal condition stemming from a disruption in the natural balance of bacteria within the vagina. It involves an overgrowth of certain bacteria, replacing beneficial Lactobacillus species. While the exact cause is unknown, factors like douching, a new sex partner, or multiple sex partners can increase the likelihood of developing BV.
Common symptoms include unusual vaginal discharge (thin, white, or grey) often with a strong “fishy” odor, which may be more noticeable after sex. Some individuals also experience vaginal itching or a burning sensation during urination. BV is not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
What is Chlamydia?
Chlamydia is a widespread sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It spreads through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also be transmitted from a pregnant person to their baby during childbirth.
Many people with Chlamydia experience no symptoms, often leading to it being called a “silent infection.” When symptoms occur, they may appear weeks after exposure. These can include abnormal vaginal discharge (white, yellow, or grey, potentially smelly) or a burning sensation during urination. In women, symptoms may also involve bleeding between periods or lower abdominal pain. Men may experience discharge from the penis, painful urination, or testicular pain.
The Relationship Between BV and Chlamydia
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) does not directly cause Chlamydia, nor does Chlamydia cause BV; they are distinct infections. The question of a relationship often arises because they can present with similar symptoms, such as unusual discharge, or because they frequently occur together.
Having BV can increase the risk of acquiring STIs like Chlamydia. This increased susceptibility is thought to be due to the altered vaginal environment in BV, which becomes less acidic and may reduce the body’s natural defenses against infection. Shared risk factors, such as unprotected sex or having multiple partners, can also contribute to the co-occurrence of both conditions.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Accurate diagnosis by a healthcare professional is important for both Bacterial Vaginosis and Chlamydia, as their symptoms can overlap with other conditions. For BV, diagnosis typically involves a pelvic exam and collection of a vaginal discharge sample for laboratory testing, which may look for “clue cells” or assess vaginal pH. Chlamydia diagnosis usually involves a urine test or a swab sample from the cervix, vagina, throat, or anus, analyzed for Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria.
Both BV and Chlamydia are treatable with antibiotics. For BV, common treatments include oral metronidazole or clindamycin, or a vaginal gel or cream. Patients should complete the full course of medication, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence. Chlamydia is typically treated with a single dose of azithromycin or a seven-day course of doxycycline. For Chlamydia, avoid sexual activity until treatment is completed and symptoms are gone. Sexual partners from the last 60 days should also be tested and treated to prevent reinfection.
Using condoms consistently and correctly helps prevent Chlamydia. Avoiding douching helps maintain a healthy vaginal bacterial balance, reducing BV risk. Regular screening for STIs like Chlamydia is recommended, especially for sexually active individuals under 25 and those with new or multiple partners.