What should you know about bv antibiotics?

Bacterial vaginosis is an imbalance of vaginal bacteria. A clinician may consider symptoms, an examination, and testing before choosing treatment. Antibiotics target the bacteria involved, but they do not treat every cause of discharge, odour, itching, or irritation, including some sexually transmitted infections or thrush.

The medicine may be supplied as a tablet or a vaginal preparation. The choice can depend on your symptoms, medical history, pregnancy status, allergies, and other medicines. Do not share leftover antibiotics or use a prescription intended for another infection.

Follow the prescribed instructions and complete the course unless the prescriber tells you to change it. Ask about alcohol or interactions because advice depends on the specific antibiotic. Avoid douching and scented vaginal products, which can irritate tissue and make symptoms harder to interpret.

If symptoms do not improve, return for review rather than repeating treatment yourself. A clinician may need to check adherence, reinfection, another infection, or a different diagnosis. Discuss partner advice and sexual activity privately with the clinician.

Seek urgent help for a severe allergic reaction, difficulty breathing, fainting, or severe abdominal or pelvic pain. Arrange prompt assessment for fever, vomiting, bleeding outside your expected period, pain during sex, pregnancy with symptoms, or symptoms after a new sexual partner.

How was bacterial vaginosis confirmed? Which antibiotic and preparation are suitable for me? What should I do about missed doses, side effects, sex, and symptoms that continue after treatment?