How long does antibiotic treatment for pelvic infection take to work for bacterial vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis is linked with an imbalance of vaginal bacteria and may cause thin discharge or a noticeable odour. Antibiotics target the bacteria involved, but symptoms can take time to settle and may return. Pelvic infection and bacterial vaginosis are not interchangeable diagnoses, so a clinician may check for sexually transmitted infections, thrush or another cause when symptoms do not fit the expected pattern.

Take the medicine at the prescribed times and finish the course unless the prescriber tells you to stop. Ask how to manage a missed dose and whether alcohol should be avoided with your specific medicine. Avoid douching and scented vaginal products, which can irritate the area. If symptoms remain after the course, arrange a review rather than repeating leftover antibiotics.

Contact a clinician if symptoms are worsening, have not begun to improve after several days, or return soon after treatment. Seek urgent care for severe pelvic pain, fever, vomiting, fainting, heavy bleeding or pregnancy with pelvic symptoms. Get prompt advice for rash, facial swelling or breathing difficulty after an antibiotic, as these may signal an allergic reaction.

Ask which diagnosis the antibiotic is treating, when review is needed, whether a partner needs testing and how to reduce recurrence. Mention pregnancy, allergies and every medicine or supplement before starting treatment.