How do you get bacterial vaginosis?
Bacteria called lactobacilli naturally live in your vagina and stop other bacteria from growing there. Sometimes the balance of these bacteria changes. If this happens you can develop bacterial vaginosis. Bacteria other than lactobacilli overgrow in the vagina and can cause symptoms. Bacterial vaginosis can’t be passed from person to person. But it's more common in people who are sexually active. Other things that may increase your risk of getting it include: having a new sexual partner having multiple sexual partners smoking using scented soaps or perfumed bubble bath putting antiseptic liquids in the bath douching (washing or cleaning out the vagina with water or other fluids) using vaginal washes or deodorant using strong detergents to wash your underwear