Yes, bacterial vaginosis (BV) can sometimes clear up on its own, but it often returns or worsens, and untreated BV increases risks for STIs, PID, and pregnancy complications, so seeing a doctor for proper diagnosis and antibiotics is generally recommended for effective treatment and to prevent recurrence. While some suggest home remedies like probiotics, garlic, or boric acid, these aren't as studied as medical treatments, making professional care the safest bet.
Can I get antibiotics for BV without seeing a doctor? Yes, you get antibiotics for bacterial vaginosis without seeing a doctor, but you'll still need a prescription from a healthcare provider. You can do this through telemedicine services such as Evvy's comprehensive Clinical Care platform.
BV is a relatively mild condition, but, left untreated, it can cause serious reproductive health problems. Untreated BV can increase the chances of contracting a sexually transmitted disease, cause pelvic infection or inflammation, and lead to pregnancy complications, such miscarriage or premature labor.
Yes, bacterial vaginosis (BV) can sometimes go away on its own, as it's considered "self-limiting," but it's not recommended to wait, especially if you have symptoms, due to risks like increased susceptibility to STIs (HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea), Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), and pregnancy complications (preterm birth, miscarriage). Medical treatment with antibiotics is usually suggested for symptomatic cases to prevent these serious health issues, particularly during pregnancy, say experts from the CDC and Cleveland Clinic.
Treatment consists of the systemic administration of either metronidazole or vaginal clindamycin cream. Some studies have indicated that systemic antibiotic treatment of BV after the 1st trimester of pregnancy can reduce the number of preterm births in high risk groups (e.g. previous history of preterm birth).
Some drinks that may improve vaginal health include cranberry juice, kefir, drinkable yogurt, coconut water, green tea, orange juice, and mango smoothies. If you have any new or uncomfortable vaginal symptoms, let your healthcare provider know so they can recommend treatment.
Most women with BV have perfectly normal pregnancies. And up to half of the cases of BV in pregnant women resolve on their own. Still, studies have shown that having BV when you're pregnant is associated with an increased risk of: Preterm birth and having a low-birth-weight baby.
There are no over-the-counter products to treat bacterial vaginosis (BV). Avoid using douches or products meant for yeast infections, which could make BV worse. See a healthcare provider for treatment.
Many women may face the discomfort of a vaginal infection at some point in their lives. Yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis (BV), and trichomoniasis are three common vaginal infections that can lead to itching, burning, unusual discharge, and vaginal odor.
The cause of BV is not fully understood; it is not caused by poor hygiene. The women affected by BV may not show any signs or symptoms. Frequent washing (especially with deodorant soap) may result in disrupting the vaginal balance.
There are also at-home vaginal pH test kits. These kits use a swab or paper strip that changes color after you moisten it with vaginal fluid. A chart shows you what the color means. A high pH (high acidity) is a sign that you may have BV, but it doesn't mean you have BV for sure.
Symptoms of bacterial vaginosis include: Thin, vaginal discharge that may be gray, white or green. Foul-smelling, "fishy" vaginal odor. Vaginal itching.
Bacterial vaginosis is a common bacterial infection of the vagina that rarely goes unnoticed. It sometimes can be confused with a yeast infection or sexually transmitted disease, such as trichomoniasis, but it is not an STD.
Self-care and Symptom Relief
Consider over the counter treatments from your pharmacy. Contact your GP practice for an appointment or book an appointment at your local sexual health service.
The most common symptom of BV is an increased vaginal discharge that usually has a "fishy" odor. The discharge is normally a milky white or gray color. A woman may feel a burning sensation or, in rare cases, itching, when she urinates. Sometimes a woman with BV has no symptoms.
Bacterial Vaginosis vs Yeast Infection Symptoms
Both these forms of vaginitis are typically accompanied by vaginal itching, burning sensations and discomfort, with a few key differences in symptoms. There is one typical, major difference between symptoms of a yeast infection vs BV: discharge color.
You likely got Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) due to an imbalance of normal vaginal bacteria, often triggered by sexual activity (new/multiple partners, no condoms), douching, smoking, or hormonal changes (like during pregnancy), which upsets the natural balance, allowing certain bacteria to overgrow, but it can also happen without a clear cause.
The majority of these infections will be due to bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis, or trichomoniasis, but noninfectious vaginitis does exist and is not uncommon. Accurate diagnosis is key as misdiagnosis can cause inappropriate treatment and recurrent visits.
Treatment for Bacterial Vaginosis
Antibiotics are the only treatment. Studies of yoghurt lactobacilli probiotic preparations (either taken orally or inserted into the vagina) which are designed to help re-establish the lactobacilli population of the vagina, have not shown consistent results in treating BV.
Apple Cider Vinegar
You can add two cups of apple cider vinegar to a warm bath and soak for about 20 minutes. The vinegar can help neutralize odors and restore the natural pH balance of your vagina.
While stress in itself cannot 'cause' BV, studies show that prolonged mental stress of any form, be it anxiety leading to BV, depression, and vaginosis, or stress-related BV, can indeed affect the body's immune response, making a woman more susceptible to infections.
While some cases may resolve on their own, untreated BV can increase your risk of other health issues, like STIs, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), or complications during pregnancy if you're expecting.
How to Tell the Difference Between Thrush and BV. The most common difference between thrush and BV is the symptoms. Both cause unusual vaginal discharge, but it is more likely to be BV if the discharge has a strong, fishy smell. BV does not usually cause irritation or itching around your vagina, but thrush can.