Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) in Grand Rapids, Michigan

It is normal for a healthy vagina to contain many types of bacteria. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a very common condition that occurs when there is an imbalance in these bacteria. In BV, the normal “good” bacteria (especially lactobacilli) are reduced and replaced by an overgrowth of other bacteria.

In Grand Rapids and across West Michigan, BV is one of the most frequent vaginal concerns seen in primary care, OB/GYN, and sexual health clinics.

What Is Bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis is a vaginal infection caused by a change in the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina. It is not considered a classic sexually transmitted infection (STI), but sexual activity and certain behaviors can increase the risk.

BV can affect anyone with a vagina, including teens and adults. It is especially common among people who are sexually active.

Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis

Some people with BV have no symptoms at all. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

  • A change or increase in vaginal discharge
  • Thin, gray or white discharge
  • A strong or unusual vaginal odor, often described as a “fishy smell” (may be stronger after sex)
  • Mild vaginal discomfort, irritation, or itch
  • Burning or discomfort during urination (less common)

If you live in Grand Rapids and notice these symptoms, especially a new or strong vaginal odor, it’s important to get checked by a healthcare provider to rule out BV and other infections such as STIs or yeast infections.

What Causes BV? (Possible Risk Factors)

The exact cause of bacterial vaginosis is still unknown, but we know it is linked to changes in the vaginal environment and bacterial balance.

Factors associated with a higher risk of BV include:

  • Douching (washing or rinsing inside the vagina)
  • Using vaginal deodorants or perfumed “feminine hygiene” products
  • Having a new sexual partner or multiple partners
  • Having a sexual partner who has a vagina
  • Not using barrier protection (such as internal or external condoms) consistently
  • Previous history of BV (it can come back)
  • Smoking

BV is more common in sexually active people, but it can also occur in those who are not sexually active.

Is BV an STI?

BV is not officially classified as a sexually transmitted infection, but:

  • It is more common in people who are sexually active
  • It can occur alongside STIs such as chlamydia or gonorrhea
  • It may increase the risk of getting or passing on STIs, including HIV

Because of this, if you are diagnosed with BV in Grand Rapids, your provider may also recommend STI testing, especially if you have new or multiple partners.

How Is BV Diagnosed in Grand Rapids?

Medical Evaluation

A diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis is based on:

  • Your symptoms (such as discharge and odor)
  • A pelvic exam
  • pH testing of vaginal fluid (BV often causes a higher, less acidic pH)
  • Looking at vaginal fluid under a microscope or sending a swab to a lab

In Grand Rapids, BV can be diagnosed and treated at:

  • Primary care clinics and family medicine practices
  • OB/GYN offices (including those affiliated with Corewell Health/Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, and Mercy Health)
  • Community health centers and urgent care clinics
  • Sexual health services supported by the Kent County Health Department and Grand Rapids Public Health programs

When Is Treatment for BV Needed?

If you do not have symptoms, treatment is often not required, because BV can be self-limiting (it may go away on its own).

However, you should seek treatment if:

  • You have bothersome symptoms (discharge, odor, irritation)
  • Symptoms are affecting your quality of life or sexual relationships
  • You are pregnant or planning a pregnancy
  • You are about to have a medical procedure that involves the uterus (for example, IUD insertion or abortion)
  • You are at increased risk of STIs

In these situations, treatment can reduce symptoms and help lower the risk of complications.

Treatment for Bacterial Vaginosis

Oral Antibiotics

The most common treatment is an antibiotic called metronidazole (tablet):

  • Typically taken twice a day for 7 days
  • Best taken after meals to reduce nausea or upset stomach
  • Avoid alcohol during treatment and for at least 24 hours after the last dose, as combining alcohol with metronidazole can make you very sick (flushing, nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat)

Vaginal Creams or Gels

If you cannot take metronidazole tablets or prefer a local treatment, your doctor may prescribe a vaginal antibiotic cream or gel, such as clindamycin:

  • Usually applied inside the vagina once a night for 7 nights
  • Follow your provider’s instructions carefully
  • Avoid using tampons at the same time, if advised

Important Notes

  • Finish the full course of treatment, even if you feel better sooner
  • Do not use leftover antibiotics or someone else’s medication
  • Avoid sex or use condoms during treatment to help the medicine work effectively and reduce irritation

BV in Pregnancy

BV is common in pregnancy and should be taken seriously, especially in Michigan where access to prenatal care may vary by neighborhood.

BV during pregnancy has been linked to:

  • Early pregnancy loss (miscarriage)
  • Premature labor (preterm birth)
  • Low birth weight

If you are pregnant in Grand Rapids and notice vaginal odor or unusual discharge, contact your:

  • OB/GYN
  • Midwife
  • Family doctor
  • Prenatal clinic (including those at Spectrum Health/Corewell, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, or Mercy Health)

Treatment during pregnancy is usually safe and can lower the risk of complications.

Can BV Come Back?

Yes. Even after successful treatment, about half of people with BV will have it return within 6 to 12 months.

Reasons for recurrence may include:

  • Ongoing imbalance in vaginal bacteria
  • Continued exposure to risk factors (such as douching or unprotected sex)
  • Possible reinfection related to sexual activity

Researchers are studying whether treating sexual partners can help reduce recurrence, but this is not yet standard practice.

If your symptoms return, schedule another visit with your healthcare provider in Grand Rapids for reassessment and possible retreatment.

Preventing Bacterial Vaginosis

You may be able to lower your risk of BV or reduce recurrences by:

  • Avoiding douching – do not rinse or wash inside the vagina
  • Avoiding vaginal deodorants, perfumed washes, and scented “feminine hygiene” products
  • Using condoms or internal condoms consistently and correctly
  • Limiting the number of sexual partners
  • Not smoking, or seeking help to quit
  • Wearing cotton underwear and avoiding very tight, non-breathable clothing in the genital area

In Grand Rapids, cold winters and layered clothing can increase sweating and moisture, which may contribute to irritation. Change out of damp clothing promptly and keep the genital area clean and dry with gentle, unscented soap on the outside only.

Possible Complications of BV

Many people with BV do not experience serious complications. However, untreated BV can be associated with:

  • Increased risk of STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV
  • Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) – an infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries
  • Pregnancy complications, including premature birth and low birth weight
  • Higher risk of infection after gynecologic procedures, such as IUD insertion or abortion

Prompt diagnosis and treatment in a local Grand Rapids clinic can help lower these risks.

Where to Get Help in Grand Rapids, MI

If you think you might have bacterial vaginosis or another vaginal infection, you can seek care at:

  • Your GP / primary care doctor
  • OB/GYN clinics in Grand Rapids
  • Corewell Health (Spectrum Health) Women’s Health clinics
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids OB/GYN and family medicine clinics
  • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health women’s health services
  • Mercy Health clinics in the Grand Rapids area
  • Community health centers and federally qualified health centers
  • Kent County Health Department and Grand Rapids Public Health sexual health services (for STI testing, education, and referrals)
  • Local urgent care centers if you cannot see your regular doctor quickly

Pharmacists in Grand Rapids can also provide guidance on medications prescribed for BV and help you understand how to take them safely.

Key Points About Bacterial Vaginosis in Grand Rapids

  • Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is very common among people with vaginas.
  • It is caused by an imbalance of the normal bacteria in the vagina.
  • The exact cause is unknown, but douching, new or multiple partners, and not using condoms can increase risk.
  • Symptoms often include unusual discharge and a strong “fishy” odor, with or without mild discomfort or itch.
  • Condom use can help reduce the risk of BV and STIs.
  • BV is treatable with antibiotics (tablets or vaginal creams), but it can come back.
  • If symptoms return or affect your quality of life, see a healthcare provider in Grand Rapids for evaluation and treatment.

If you live in the Grand Rapids, MI area and are concerned about bacterial vaginosis, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with your doctor or a local women’s health or sexual health clinic for confidential, professional care.