First part of the material The symptom by which the presence of bacterial vaginosis can be recognized is a change in the vaginal contents. Vaginal discharge acquires a yellowish or grayish color and emits a specific fishy smell. The complaint is stronger after intercourse. In 50% of cases of bacterial vaginosis, however, this symptom is not reported. The diagnosis is made after history, vaginal examination and microbiological examination of discharge. However, a similar description is found in other infections, some sexually transmitted, especially trichomoniasis and vaginal yeast infection and urinary tract infections. Bacterial vaginosis is not a serious infection, but in some cases it can lead to serious health problems. This applies in cases of: pregnancy – untreated bacterial vaginosis can lead to miscarriage or premature birth, infection of the uterus during childbirth, during medical procedures through the vagina, such as hysterectomy, abrasion, etc. – it can become a cause of infection in the small pelvis, in case of a sexually transmitted disease – the presence of bacterial vaginosis complicates its course. Treatment is by taking antibiotics. The most commonly used drugs are metronidazole (Flagyl) and clindamycin, which are available in two forms – for oral administration or vaginal administration. NEWS_MORE_BOX Usually the symptoms are relieved in 2-3 days, but the treatment lasts for a total of 7 days. Alcohol should be avoided when taking metronidazole and tinidazole, as the combination causes nausea and vomiting. Vaginal creams and globules with clindamycin break the strength of condoms, which requires abstinence from sexual contact during treatment. It is also necessary to provide protection against fungal infection, since taking antibiotics predisposes to the development of one. Symptoms of the fungal infection are itching, redness, white vaginal discharge that looks like curdled yogurt.