Bacterial vaginosis is the most frequent cause of vaginal discharge
in the United States. Symptoms include vaginal discharge and odor,
but half of women with bacterial vaginosis are asymptomatic. Previously
given little attention and called nonspecific vaginitis or Gardnerella vaginitis, bacterial vaginosis
is now known to be significantly associated with complications of pregnancy,
including preterm rupture of membranes, preterm delivery, and low
birth weight. Additionally, it has been associated with gynecologic
complications such as postabortal endometritis, posthysterectomy
vaginal cuff cellulitis, pelvic inflammatory diseases (PID), and urinary
tract infections. It also appears to be a risk factor for acquisition
of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV.