Transmitted Virus Bacterial vaginosis, a condition that can lead to serious health complications in women, may be caused by a sexually transmitted virus that infects vaginal lactobacilli, according to a University of Illinois at Chicago study. Although it is more common and more serious than yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis receives less attention and, as a result, fewer women are aware of it. The vagina normally contains high amounts of helpful bacteria called lactobacilli, which play an important role in maintaining vaginal health.
Vaginal infections are frequent causes of distress and discomfort.
The most common infections are bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and vulvovaginal candidiasis. The cause of vaginitis cannot be adequately determined solely on the basis of symptoms or a physical examination. Laboratory tests allowing microscopic evaluation of vaginal fluid are required for a correct diagnosis. A variety of effective drugs are available for treating vaginal infections and accompanying vaginitis. BV is due to a change in the balance among different types of bacteria in the vagina.