Recurring Bacterial Vaginosis: What You Can Do About It?
An imbalance of the natural bacteria in the vagina can cause a condition known as recurrent bacterial vaginosis (BV). A type of vaginitis, it is an inflammation of the vagina that occurs when there are more ‘bad’ bacteria than ‘good.’ For some women, the condition can become more chronic with frequent and persistent episodes.
Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis
Often, women may not even know they have bacterial vaginosis because it causes no symptoms. If symptoms do appear, they may include:
- An unpleasant odour that is worse after sex or menstruation
- Itching, burning, or pain when peeing
- A strong fish-like odour
- More vaginal discharge than normal
- Discharge that is milky or grey
It is important to note that vaginas have a unique scent that is nothing to be concerned or embarrassed about. It is only when there is a distinct, unpleasant odour that you should be worried because there is a difference between scent and odour.
How to Prevent Bacterial Vaginosis
Because vaginas have a natural scent, there is no reason to take steps to mask or get rid of it, especially since the vagina is self-cleaning. By doing things like douching or using perfumes down there, you may be doing more harm than good. These types of products are major culprits when it comes to BV.
You should also:
- Limit your number of sexual partners
- Wipe back to front after using the toilet
- Use warm water, not soap, to clean the outside of your vagina
- Wear cotton or natural fibre knickers
Bacterial Vaginosis Treatment
Bacterial Vaginosis needs to be treated with antibiotics since it is a vaginal infection caused by bacteria. It isn’t contagious or an STD but if your sexual partners are female they may need treatment. Male partners shouldn’t need treatment.
If you are giving antibiotics for your BV, make sure you finish the entire course even if your symptoms seem to go away. By not fully treating bacterial vaginosis, you run the risk of the infection coming back.
- Metronidazole Tablets: A broad-spectrum antibiotic that can be used to treat BV. It stops the growth of bacteria and prevents further infection.
- Dalacin Cream: A topical antibiotic vaginal cream that you should apply before bed with the included disposable applicator.
Buy Metronidazole Tablets and Dalacin Cream for bacterial vaginosis treatment online in the UK from our website.
Authored By
HARMINDER ‘HARMY’ KAUR
BSc(hons) Pharmacy
GPhC Number: 2061107
Reviewed By
GURDEV SEHMI
BSc Pharm, MRPharmS, Independent Prescriber, Superintendent Pharmacist, Clinical Lead
GPhC Number: 2050925