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International Society for Sexual Medicine

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What are possible complications for bacterial vaginosis?

Reviewed by the medical professionals of the ISSM’s Communication Committee

For most women, bacterial vaginosis (BV) is not a serious problem. However, it can lead to health problems that women should be aware of.

• Pregnancy risks. Pregnant women with BV are more likely to deliver their babies prematurely or have a low birth weight baby.

• Surgical infection risks. Women with BV are more prone to infection during gynecologic surgeries, such as hysterectomy, abortion, and dilation and curettage (D & C).

• Risk for pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID is an infection of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes that can lead to infertility.

• Higher risk for sexually-transmitted infections (STIs). Women with BV are more susceptible to getting HIV, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. If a woman has HIV and BV, there is a greater risk that she will spread HIV to her partner(s).