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Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): Symptoms, Testing and Treatment in Seoul

 Quick answer: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common imbalance of vaginal bacteria that can cause thin gray discharge and a fishy odor. It is not a sexually transmitted infection, and it is treated with prescription medicine. At Eunice Women's Clinic near Seongsu Station, an English-speaking female OB-GYN can confirm BV with a simple swab test and explain treatment options.

What is bacterial vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common cause of abnormal vaginal discharge in women of reproductive age. A healthy vagina is usually dominated by protective Lactobacillus bacteria, which keep the environment slightly acidic. In BV, these bacteria decrease and other bacteria, such as Gardnerella , grow in larger numbers.

BV is not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI), and it is not caused by poor hygiene. It is a change in balance, and it can happen to anyone with a vagina.

What are the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis?

About half of people with BV notice no symptoms. When symptoms appear, they often include:

  • Thin, white or gray vaginal discharge
  • A fishy odor, often stronger after sex or during a period
  • Mild itching or irritation (usually less than with a yeast infection)

Strong itching, burning, or thick white discharge point more to a yeast infection, and frothy yellow-green discharge may suggest trichomoniasis. Because the symptoms overlap, testing is the most reliable way to know.

What causes bacterial vaginosis?

The exact cause is not fully understood. Factors linked to a higher chance of BV include:

  • Vaginal douching or washing inside the vagina
  • A new sexual partner or multiple partners
  • Changes in hormones, for example around a period
  • Smoking
  • Not using condoms

When should I see a doctor?

See a gynecologist if you notice a new discharge or odor, if symptoms return after treatment, or if you are pregnant and have any change in discharge. Untreated BV can raise the risk of getting other STIs and, in pregnancy, has been linked to complications such as preterm birth. Seek care promptly if you also have fever, pelvic pain, or pain during sex, since these may point to a different condition such as pelvic inflammatory disease.

How is bacterial vaginosis diagnosed at the clinic?

Diagnosis usually takes one short visit. The doctor asks about your symptoms, then takes a gentle swab of vaginal discharge during a speculum exam. The sample can be checked for pH, odor, and typical “clue cells” under a microscope, and it can also be sent for laboratory testing. If you have risk factors for STIs, the doctor may suggest STD testing at the same visit, because BV and STIs can occur together. Learn more about a gynecology consultation.

How is bacterial vaginosis treated?

BV is treated with prescription antibiotics, given as tablets or as a vaginal gel or cream. The doctor will choose an option based on your symptoms, medical history, and whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Some general points:

  • Finish the full course even if symptoms improve early.
  • Some antibiotics used for BV should not be combined with alcohol; the doctor will explain.
  • Male sexual partners usually do not need treatment.
  • BV comes back within a few months for many people. If this happens, the doctor can discuss a longer or repeated treatment plan.

Individual results vary.

How can I prevent bacterial vaginosis?

  • Avoid douching and do not wash inside the vagina; rinse the outer area with water or a mild, unscented wash.
  • Use condoms, especially with new partners.
  • Avoid scented soaps, bubble baths, and vaginal deodorants.
  • Wear breathable cotton underwear.

Some people ask about vaginal probiotics. The evidence for preventing BV is still limited; you can discuss whether they are suitable for you with the doctor.

Getting care in English near Seongsu Station

If you think you may have bacterial vaginosis, you can be tested in one visit, and the doctor can explain your results and treatment in English. Dr. Eun Mi-na, a female board-certified OB-GYN, sees patients in English at Eunice Women's Clinic.

  •  Address: 8F Bethel Place, 120 Achasan-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, across the crosswalk from Seongsu Station (Line 2) Exit 3, about a 1-minute walk
  • Mon, Wed, Fri: 10:00–19:00
  • Tue, Thu: 10:00–20:00 (evening clinic)
  • Sat: 10:00–14:00 (no lunch break)
  • Weekday lunch break: 13:30–14:30. Closed Sundays and Korean public holidays

You can book through Naver Booking, the KakaoTalk channel (search “유니스산부인과” or Eunice), or by phone at +82-2-467-3100. Booking is recommended; call or message to check same-day availability. See directions from Seongsu Station.

Book an appointment in English

Eunice Women's Clinic · 8F Bethel Place, 120 Achasan-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul · Seongsu Station (Line 2) Exit 3

Phone: +82-2-467-3100 · KakaoTalk channel · Naver Booking

Mon, Wed, Fri 10:00–19:00 · Tue & Thu 10:00–20:00 · Sat 10:00–14:00 · Lunch 13:30–14:30 · Closed Sundays & public holidays

How to book · Directions · Fees

Frequently asked questions

Is bacterial vaginosis a sexually transmitted infection?

No. BV is an imbalance of the bacteria that normally live in the vagina. It is more common after a new sexual partner, but it can also happen in people who have never had sex. It is not caused by poor hygiene.

Can bacterial vaginosis go away on its own?

Sometimes mild BV clears without treatment, but it often continues or returns. Because BV can raise the risk of other infections, it is better to get tested and treated, especially if you have symptoms or are pregnant.

Does my partner need treatment for BV?

Current guidelines do not recommend routine treatment for male partners. Female partners may share BV, so they may wish to be checked if they have symptoms. The doctor can advise based on your situation.

Can I buy BV medicine at a Korean pharmacy without a prescription?

Antibiotics for BV require a prescription in Korea. Over-the-counter products for vaginal symptoms are often for yeast infections, which are a different condition. A swab test helps make sure you get the right treatment.

Why does my BV keep coming back?

Recurrence is common and does not mean you did anything wrong. Triggers can include douching, new partners, and hormonal changes. If BV returns often, the doctor can discuss a longer treatment plan and ways to lower your risk.

Related pages

This page provides general health information for patients and does not replace a consultation with a doctor. Individual results vary. If you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, fainting or other urgent symptoms, call 119 or go to the nearest emergency room. Page updated September 2026.