You observe copious grayish, white, uniform in consistency, watery vaginal discharge. It is often more abundant after sex and around menstruation. It also has an unpleasant fishy smell. No severe itching. If these symptoms are familiar to you, then you most likely had the so-called bacterial vaginosis. Bacterial vaginosis is a condition characterized by a significant change in the vaginal microbiome, with “good” bacteria decreasing in number and “bad” bacteria taking their place. Lactobacilli are the bacteria that are important for local homeostasis in the vagina. They break down glycogen into lactic acid, which acidifies the environment and prevents pathogenic bacteria from multiplying. In vaginosis, these microorganisms decrease, which leads to a decrease in acidity and thus an overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria begins. The main cause of bacterial vaginosis is considered to be Gardnerella vaginalis. Gardnerella is found as part of the natural vaginal flora, but in relatively small amounts. Under the right conditions, however, the number of bacteria can grow 100- to 10,000-fold. Then intimate discomfort begins to manifest itself. The reasons for the development of bacterial vaginosis are different and are not yet fully known. The main predisposing factors are pregnancy, the use of intrauterine devices and vaginal douches, but they are not limited to this. For some women, it is enough to get a slight cold or to stand for a while in a wet swimsuit after swimming in a pool. Some authors also consider this condition to be sexually transmitted. In short, bacterial vaginosis occurs as a result of an imbalance of the vaginal flora without the exact cause of this. NEWS_MORE_BOX However, the possible complications resulting from bacterial vaginosis are known. Pregnant women are mainly affected, with an increased risk of premature rupture of the amniotic sac, premature birth and postpartum endometritis (inflammation of the uterine lining). These complications are usually the result of untreated vaginosis and the ascent (climbing) of bacteria from the vagina to the internal female reproductive organs. Therefore, therapy for this condition is imperative. In pregnant women, systemic treatment is preferred; i.e. taking an antibiotic by mouth. There are two recommended regimens: 1. Metronidazole 250mg, 3 times a day for 7 days; 2. An alternative is clindamycin 300 mg, twice a day for one week. Non-pregnant symptomatic women are also subject to antibiotic treatment. Therapy is aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing the spread of infection. The recommended regimens for three: 1. Metronidazole 500mg, 2 times a day for 7 days; 2. Metronidazole in gel form, one applicator intravaginally within 5 days; 3. Clindamycin cream one applicator intravaginally at bedtime for 7 days.In the alternative regimens, metronidazole and clindamycin are used again, but in different doses, a different form of administration and for a different period of time. This article is intended to increase your health culture and does not encourage self-medication. In the presence of gynecological symptoms, I always recommend consulting a professional specializing in obstetrics and gynecology.