Is BV an STI?

BV (bacterial vaginosis) is a condition of bacterial overgrowth of your vagina. Symptoms are usually vaginal itching, changes in vaginal discharge and/or a funny smell of your private area.

To answer your question, no. BV is not an STI. Consider that we all have lots of good bacteria living on us and in us—males and females. Females have lots of different types of bacteria in the vagina. When some types of bacteria are killed, other types of bacteria grow too much and cause the symptoms above. While BV can result from having sex it is more commonly something that can happen regardless of sexual activity. For some females BV is caused by over-scrubbing the private area, baths in soapy water and vaginal deodorants.

It’s easy to treat but you do need a visit with a medical professional. Also, treat your vagina gently. If you’re worried about an odor or funny discharge keep in mind that this can actually be entirely normal. As with BV, if you wash your private area excessively it can make things worse.

And as always, use condoms if you are going to have sex. It’s the only way to prevent spread of STIs.