As the name suggests, bacterial vaginosis (BV) is caused by an overgrowth of the bacteria in the vagina.

As a bacterial inflammation, the only medically-proven treatment for the condition is antibiotics.However, many women use natural home remedies to treat BV. Seeing a doctor when you experience BV symptoms is still recommended. They can help make sure you are treating the right condition, since BV can present symptoms similar to that of other vaginal complications. Left untreated, BV can lead to discomfort, pain, and possible worsening infections and infertility.