Is Bacterial Vaginosis common in pregnancy...?

Question

...or did I get it from my boyfriend. I did not have it before, so I would like to know, do you get it from someone, or is it like yeast infection that just happens sometimes?

Answer 1

Yeast infections are much more common in pregnancy, especially the second trimester because of all the extra hormones causing all the extra vaginal discharge 'down there'.  Completely normal and nothing to worry about - it will not harm your baby.  However, yeast infections can be rather uncomfortable and its best to never leave any infection untreated (and it is also possible to give your boyfriend a yeast infection as well) so see your doctor as soon as possible and get a suitable treatment that is safe for you to use whilst pregnant!

Answer 2

Bacterial Vaginosis is a pretty common, but under diagnosed condition that can also be mistaken for other vaginal disorders.  It is not a sexually transmitted "disease" per say, even though the condition occurs because of sexual contact.  Bacterial vaginosis occurs when the v****a's normal bacteria is altered.  The v****a has an acidic enviroment, and when different bacteria are introduced into it, the pH is altered and therefore causes changes in the v****a.  Some symptoms you may experience are a foul, fishy odor and grey or white mucousy discharge if you have BV.  These symptoms can be confused with other diagnoses such as a yeast infection.  (A yeast infection is likely to itch in the vaginal area and vaginal discharge looks white and clumpy. The v****a can also be swollen and red.)  

Either way, these two vaginal problems need different treatment and need to be diagnosed professionally to get the correct medication.  More than likely, bacterial vaginosis occurs as a result of having intercourse. It can be a reaction to a condom or s***n.

Here is what I suggest you do:

1.  Go to your doctor, a female nurse practitioner, or female gynecologist.  He or she will be able to diagnosis this and have you started on medication the same day.

2.  If you don't have insurance, go to a free clinic.

3.  Stop having s*x and give your v****a some time to cleanse itself.  NO douching, that will only deplete your v****a of its good bacteria. NO yogurt or any of the crazy "remedies" that are on the internet.  Just refrain from intercouse for a week.

4.  Have your boyfriend tested for STDs as well as yourself.  

5.  See a professional if you think you are pregnant and you are having vaginal symptoms.

6. Don't let this go untreated or self-diagnose this.  If any medical condition is left untreated it can lead to infertility down the road or Pelvic Inflammatory Disease.

Hope this helps!  Good luck!