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Bacterial vaginosis - Management
What are the characteristic features of bacterial vaginosis?
- Approximately 50% of women with bacterial vaginosis (BV) are asymptomatic.
- When symptoms are present, BV is characterized by a fishy-smelling vaginal discharge.
- Examination may reveal a thin, white, homogeneous discharge coating the walls of the vagina and vestibule.
- The characteristic appearance of the discharge is not specific for BV but supports the diagnosis.
- If the appearance of the discharge is not characteristic, consider other diagnoses, such as trichomoniasis or candidiasis.
- Bacterial vaginosis is not usually associated with soreness, itching, or irritation.
- The pH of the vaginal fluid is greater than 4.5.
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