Completed in 2013

This study explored the experiences and impact in women with recurring bacterial vaginosis (BV). We looked at the effect recurring BV had on their self-esteem, sexual relationships and quality of life. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is common and causes an abnormal vaginal discharge and/or odour in up to 50% of sufferers.

35 women with male and/or female partners participated in interviews either face-to-face or by telephone. Some women reported recurring BV had little impact on their lives but most reporting BV had a moderate to severe impact. The degree to which BV impacted on women physically, emotionally, sexually and socially often depended on the frequency of episodes and how severe their symptoms. Women commonly reported that symptoms of BV made them feel embarrassed, ashamed, ‘dirty’ and were very concerned that others may notice the strong smell and discharge.

The biggest impact of recurring BV was on women’s self-esteem and sex lives, with women regularly avoiding sex, in particular oral sex, as they were too embarrassed and self-conscious of their symptoms to engage in these activities. Women often felt confused about why they were experiencing recurring BV and frustrated at their lack of control over recurrence.

Publications

The burden of bacterial vaginosis: women’s experience of the physical, emotional, sexual and social impact of living with recurrent bacterial vaginosis

Bilardi JE, Walker S, Temple-Smith M, McNair R, Mooney-Somers J, Bellhouse C, Fairley CK, Chen MY, Bradshaw CS

(2013), PLOS ONE,

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0074378