Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common cause of vaginitis and represents a synergistic polymicrobial syndrome characterized by depletion of Lactobacillus species, especially those that produce hydrogen peroxide, and acquisition of complex bacterial communities that include many fastidious bacteria recently detected using PCR. BV has been associated with numerous adverse sequelae, including pelvic inflammatory disease, postâsurgical infections, preterm delivery, and increases in risk of HIV infection. This chapter provides an update on prevention and management of BV. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
