Bacterial vaginosis or BV is an infection that occurs in the vagina. It occurs due to an overgrowth of bad bacteria in the vagina. Vagina has both bad and good bacteria but is in balance. When this balance tilts towards bad bacteria; it can result in an infection. BV is treatable with the help of prescription antibiotics. You can also use BV over the counter medications.

Tips to Clear Bacterial Vaginosis

It is not advisable to left BV untreated. It causes irritation, pain, itchiness, grayish or white discharge, and bad odor in the vagina. The pain can be bad during sexual intercourse and urination.

Prescription Medicines for BV –

– Metronidazole: It is one of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics for BV. It is available as both a pill and gel. The pill (500 mg), needs to be taken orally for at least a week. Your doctor will let you know if you need it for a longer duration. You will need to insert the gel; as prescribed, inside the vagina (for a week or so).

– Clindamycin: It is also available both in gel and pill form. You will need to take the tablet (300 mg) once a day; for seven days or so. The gel needs to be inserted inside the vagina. Usually; the gel does is 1 full applicator for five days or so.

BV Over the Counter Medications –

BV is known to recur every few months after the first infection. In such cases; your doctor may prescribe antibiotics for longer than two weeks. You can also use BV over the counter medications to prevent its recurrence.

– Boric acid suppositories: Boric acid aids in keeping the balance of good and bad bacteria in the vagina intact. It also helps to keep the vaginal acidity levels optimal. Suppositories refer to solid medicines that are inserted inside the vagina or rectum. Boric acid suppositories need to be inserted inside the vagina.

Follow the directions given on the suppository package if you are buying it over the counter. If your doctor prescribes it, follow the recommendations and steps about how to use it.

If you have recurring BV, you can use boric acid suppositories after sexual intercourse to prevent it. You can talk to your doctor about how and when to use it during your visit. You can even use boric acid suppositories to aid the antibiotic treatment for BV.

Other Tips to Fight BV

– Refrain from sexual intercourse when you are taking medicines for BV.

– The use of condoms or other barrier-protective contraception during sexual intercourse can lower the risk of infection.

– Consume probiotics to increase the growth of good bacteria in the body. You can eat yogurt and fermented foods that are rich in probiotics or take their supplements. Consuming probiotics is better even when you are on an antibiotic treatment course. It will help to keep good bacteria in the body intact.

– You can also consume garlic when you have BV. Garlic is known for its potent antibacterial properties.

– Wash the vagina after sexual intercourse. It can help to prevent BV. A good rinse can remove lubricants from the vaginal area, which can irritate the skin if allowed to remain in the vagina or vulva. Ensure that you urinate before rinsing the vagina after sex. It will help to effectively remove sexual fluids as well as lubricants from the vaginal region.

– Take measures to maintain the pH levels of the vagina. Refrain from using scented soaps or cleaners to clean the vagina. Rinsing the vagina with water is sufficient. The use of douches can irritate the vagina; and increase the risk of BV.

– Wear cotton underwear to minimize the risk of BV and other types of vaginal infections.

– Do not touch the vagina with dirty hands. Before washing the vagina, ensure you clean your hands.

– Keep the vagina dry.

– See your doctor as soon as you contract BV. If your experience itchiness or a burning sensation, it is best to see the doctor. If it is a recurring infection, use BV over the counter medications such as boric acid suppositories. You can buy OTC medicines from reputed online stores selling medicines.