Antibiotics for bacterial vaginosis

Treatment may be taken by mouth or placed inside the vagina as a gel or cream. Use the prescribed medicine exactly as directed, even if odour or discharge improves before the course is finished.

Bacterial vaginosis, often called BV, occurs when the usual balance of vaginal bacteria changes. Antibiotics reduce the bacteria associated with that imbalance; they are not antifungal medicines and will not treat vaginal thrush.

A clinician may check a vaginal fluid sample because BV can resemble thrush or some sexually transmitted infections. BV can return after treatment, so renewed symptoms do not necessarily mean that the medicine was taken incorrectly.

Tell the prescriber if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, allergic to an antibiotic, or taking other medicines. Ask whether the particular vaginal product affects latex condoms or diaphragms, and follow its leaflet because formulations differ.

Do not share antibiotics, save leftovers, or use someone else's prescription. Avoid vaginal douching, which can disrupt the vaginal environment. Contact the prescriber if nausea, diarrhoea, a rash, or new itching develops rather than stopping or changing the dose on your own.

Arrange an assessment if symptoms persist after treatment, return, or change in character. Seek prompt care for fever, worsening lower abdominal or pelvic pain, vomiting, bleeding outside your expected period, or feeling very unwell, because another infection or condition may need evaluation.

Contact a clinician promptly for facial or throat swelling, breathing difficulty, widespread blistering rash, or severe watery diarrhoea after an antibiotic. Pregnant patients with vaginal symptoms should mention the pregnancy when arranging care so treatment can be selected appropriately.

Ask how the diagnosis was confirmed, whether an oral or vaginal medicine fits your circumstances, which side effects need attention, and what to do if symptoms recur. Also ask whether testing for sexually transmitted infections is appropriate for you.