Bacterial vaginosis

• Signs and symptoms
• Getting it
• Diagnosis & treatment
• Long-term effects

Long-term effects

For many women BV goes away without being treated. BV will not affect your chances of getting pregnant although if you are pregnant it may cause problems such as miscarriage, premature birth or the baby being born underweight.

Treatment when pregnant or breastfeeding will not harm the baby, but do let your doctor or nurse know.

If you think you may have BV, contact your local NHS sexual health clinic (also known as a GUM clinic) and make an appointment. It's easy and completely confidential.

For more information on sexual health (including HIV), call the Sexual Health Line free (from the UK) on 0800 567 123, textphone (for people with hearing impairments) 0800 521 361 or phone your local NHS sexual health clinic.

Where to get help