Bacterial Vaginosis Treatments
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is a common infection that many women experience at some point. BV can cause vaginal discharge and raise the risk of getting sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Among women aged 15 to 44, BV is the most common vaginal condition. Though BV usually isn't serious, if you have it, you'll need treatment. At Ashcroft Pharmacy we offer a wide range of multiple options to help you better manage your symptoms. Fill out the health questionnaires below, and one of our prescribers will ensure that you receive the most suitable treatment for your condition.
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Bacterial Vaginosis medications
Bacterial Vaginosis Key Information
What is bacterial vaginosis (BV)?
Many women will have bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common infection, at some point in their lives. It happens when your vagina's bacterial balance shifts, which can happen for a variety of reasons. Unusual vaginal discharge is frequently caused by bacterial vaginosis (BV).
Because of the naturally acidic pH of the vagina and the delicate balance of different beneficial bacteria, bacterial vaginosis (BV) is very prevalent.
Bacterial vaginosis is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but it does raise your risk of contracting one, like chlamydia.
How do I know I have Bacterial Vaginosis?
Visit a sexual health clinic or GP, the doctor may:
- Inquire about your past medical records. Your physician might inquire about any previous STIs or vaginal infections you've had.
- Do a pelvic examination
- Take a vaginal discharge sample
Check the pH in your vagina. You can measure the acidity of your vagina with a pH strip. The test strip is inserted into your vagina. A vaginal pH of 4.5 or higher is a sign of bacterial vaginosis.
Thrush Vs BV
There are other causes of vaginal discharge than BV. Discharge can result from a number of illnesses, including STIs and thrush.
Thrush is a vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of the yeast candida, which normally resides in the intestine.
Thrush usually results in a thick, white or grey discharge that tends to itch and hurt in the area surrounding the vulva and vagina.
How to prevent bacterial vaginosis (BV)?
Avoid using perfumed products. Use warm water to wash your genitalia. Vaginal tissues can become inflamed by scented soaps and other scented products. Use only unscented pads or tampons.
Avoid douching. Douching won't get rid of an infection in the vagina. In fact, it might get worse. Other than taking a regular bath, there is no need to clean your vagina. The vaginal flora is disturbed by douching, which increases the risk of infection.
Have safe sex. Use dental dams or latex condoms to reduce your chance of contracting STIs. Make sure all sex toys are clean. Don't have sex, or limit the amount of partners you have.
What causes bacterial vaginosis (BV)?
When the natural bacterial levels in the vagina are out of balance, bacterial vaginosis occurs. The term "vaginal flora" refers to the microorganisms (bacteria) found in the vagina.
Healthy vagina are maintained by a balanced vaginal flora. "Good" bacteria typically outweigh "bad" germs in numbers.
Anaerobes are bad bacteria, whereas lactobacilli are the healthy bacteria. Bacterial vaginosis is caused by anaerobes that overpower the flora and throw off the delicate balance.
How can I treat bacterial vaginosis (BV)?
The symptoms of bacterial vaginosis can be managed at home using an oral medication or internal gel that helps to maintain the proper pH balance of your vagina. Tablets, gels, or creams containing antibiotics are typically used to treat bacterial vaginosis.
Some medications used to treat BV are:
- Metronidazole 400mg Tablets
- Zidoval Vaginal Gel
- Canestest
These are recommended by a sexual health clinic or GP. If you have a same-sex partner, they may also need treatment.
Written and reviewed by our qualified team — Mr Suhail Jamil, Superintendent Pharmacist (GPhC 2069518).