Why Your Vagina Smells and What to Do About It
Top 8 Best Probiotics For BV In 2024
We independently select all products and services. This article was written by a third-party company. If you click through links we provide, The Georgia Straight may earn a commission. Learn more
The beneficial live bacteria and yeasts known as probiotics are crucial for our overall health, particularly our digestive system. You can find them in various foods such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, and they are also purchasable in supplement form. Studies suggest that probiotics can help address numerous health concerns, including bacterial vaginosis (BV).
BV is a common vaginal infection that affects many women. It is caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina and can lead to symptoms such as itching, burning, and a fishy odor. While antibiotics are a common treatment for BV, they can also kill off the good bacteria in the vagina, leading to further imbalances. This is where probiotics come in.
Taking probiotics can help restore the balance of bacteria in the vagina, potentially reducing the risk of BV and its symptoms. However, not all probiotics are created equal when it comes to treating BV. It's important to choose a probiotic that contains strains of bacteria that have been shown to be effective in treating BV.
When choosing a probiotic for BV, it's important to look for one that contains Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus jensenii, or Lactobacillus rhamnosus. These strains have been shown to be particularly effective in treating BV. Additionally, it's important to choose a probiotic that contains a high number of colony-forming units (CFUs) to ensure that you are getting a sufficient amount of the beneficial bacteria.
We spent hours researching and testing various probiotics to identify the best probiotics for BV. In the following sections, we will share our top picks and explain why we believe they are the best options for treating BV.
Best Probiotics for BVWe understand that dealing with BV can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. That's why we've researched and put together a list of the best probiotics for BV that can help alleviate symptoms and promote overall vaginal health. These probiotics have been carefully selected based on their effectiveness, quality, and customer reviews. Whether you're looking for a daily supplement or a specific strain to target BV, we've got you covered. Check out our top picks below.
1. URO Vaginal Probiotics for WomenWe highly recommend URO Vaginal Probiotics for Women to anyone looking for a daily supplement that supports vaginal health.
Pros
Cons
We've been using URO Vaginal Probiotics for Women for a few weeks now and have noticed a significant improvement in our vaginal health. The proprietary V-Positiv Probiotic Blend and XOS Prebiotics work together to promote healthy vaginal flora and support a healthy vaginal odor. We appreciate that the ingredients are clean and provide proactive relief from vaginal itching and dryness.
One potential downside is that it may take a few weeks to see results, so it's important to be patient and consistent with taking the supplement. Additionally, some may find the price point to be high compared to other probiotic supplements. Lastly, the capsules may be difficult to swallow for some individuals.
Overall, we highly recommend URO Vaginal Probiotics for Women to anyone looking for a daily supplement that supports vaginal health.
2. RepHresh Pro-B Probiotic Supplement for WomenWe highly recommend RepHresh Pro-B Probiotic Supplement for Women because it is a clinically tested and gynecologist recommended brand that balances yeast and bacteria to maintain feminine health.
Pros
Cons
RepHresh Pro-B is a feminine probiotic supplement taken orally once a day to balance yeast and bacteria. With 5 billion beneficial bacteria per serving at time of manufacture, RepHresh Pro-B Feminine Probiotic Supplement contains patented and clinically tested strains of lactobacillus: L. Rhamnosus (GR-1) and L. Reuteri (RC-14). This proprietary probiotic blend balances yeast and bacteria to maintain feminine health.
We have personally used RepHresh Pro-B and have noticed a significant improvement in our feminine health. It is easy to take and has no unpleasant taste or odor. We also appreciate that it is gluten-free and contains no artificial colors or preservatives.
Overall, RepHresh Pro-B Probiotic Supplement for Women is a reliable and effective choice for those looking to balance their vaginal flora and maintain feminine health.
3. Happy v Probiotics for Vaginal HealthIf you're looking for a natural BV treatment and yeast infection prebiotic, Happy v Probiotics for Vaginal Health is definitely worth considering.
Pros
Cons
We recently tried Happy v Probiotics for Vaginal Health and were impressed with the results. Within a few weeks, we noticed a significant improvement in vaginal health and a reduction in symptoms of BV and yeast infections.
The product contains more than 50 billion CFU of lactobacillus acidophilus probiotic, which is ideal for women's digestive health. Additionally, the prebiotics in the formula make the probiotics six times more effective.
Happy v Probiotics for Vaginal Health also contains Lactobacillus rhamnosus, crispatus, and reuteri, which have been clinically tested to help protect the vaginal flora and urinary tract against BV, UTI, and yeast infections.
The delayed-release and shelf-stable capsules pair well with boric acid suppositories and cranberry pills for women. The product is also gluten and dairy-free and manufactured in a USA FDA inspected cGMP facility.
Overall, we highly recommend Happy v Probiotics for Vaginal Health for those looking for a natural and effective way to treat BV and maintain vaginal health.
4. Vitamin Bounty Women's Vaginal Probiotic & PrebioticIf you're looking for a probiotic that can help support your vaginal and urinary health, Vitamin Bounty Women's Vaginal Probiotic & Prebiotic might be the product for you.
Pros
Cons
Our experience with Vitamin Bounty Women's Vaginal Probiotic & Prebiotic has been positive overall. We appreciate that the product is designed specifically for women's needs and contains a blend of prebiotics and probiotics. The addition of cranberry, ashwagandha, and black cohosh root is also a nice touch, as these ingredients have been shown to support vaginal and urinary health. We've also noticed that the delayed-release capsule seems to be effective, as we've experienced positive results since taking the supplement.
That being said, we do understand that not every product works for every person. Some users have reported no noticeable difference after taking the supplement, and a few have noted that the capsules are slightly larger than other probiotics they've tried. Additionally, the product may not be suitable for individuals with certain dietary restrictions, as it contains gluten.
Overall, we would recommend Vitamin Bounty Women's Vaginal Probiotic & Prebiotic to individuals looking for a probiotic that can support their vaginal and urinary health. However, as with any supplement, we recommend speaking with a healthcare provider before adding it to your daily routine.
5. Intimate Rose Vaginal Probiotics For WomenIf you're looking for a natural way to optimize your vaginal health, Intimate Rose Vaginal Probiotics For Women is worth considering.
Pros
Cons
I've been using Intimate Rose Vaginal Probiotics For Women for a few weeks now and I'm already seeing a difference in my vaginal health. I love that it contains natural ingredients, including four strains of prebiotics and probiotics, D-Mannose, and cranberry extract. It's also great that it's safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women and may reduce the risk of Group B Strep during pregnancy.
One thing to note is that some customers have reported stomach upset or bloating when taking this product. However, I haven't experienced any negative side effects. I also appreciate that the vegan capsules are easy to swallow and that the two-pill dosage means I don't have to take as many pills.
Overall, if you're looking for a natural way to improve your vaginal health, Intimate Rose Vaginal Probiotics For Women is definitely worth trying.
6. Life-Space Probiotic for WomenIf you're looking for a probiotic that supports healthy vaginal microflora, reduces the recurrence of women's troubles, and supports urinary tract health, then Life-Space Probiotic for Women is the product for you.
Pros
Cons
We have personally used Life-Space Probiotic for Women and have found it to be effective in reducing the recurrence of women's troubles. The probiotic contains Lactobacillus crispatus, which has significant antibacterial activity and enhances women's vaginal immunity and resistance. We also appreciate that it is dairy and gluten-free, with no artificial flavors or colorants.
Overall, we highly recommend Life-Space Probiotic for Women for those looking for a probiotic that supports healthy vaginal microflora, reduces the recurrence of women's troubles, and supports urinary tract health.
7. WINDSOR BOTANICALS ProbioticIf you're looking for a high-quality vaginal probiotic supplement, then the WINDSOR BOTANICALS Probiotic is a great option for you.
Pros
Cons
We've been using this probiotic supplement for a few weeks now, and we're really impressed with the results. We've noticed a significant improvement in our vaginal health, with fewer symptoms of BV and yeast infections. The capsules are easy to swallow, and we haven't experienced any side effects so far.
The probiotic blend is specifically designed to target the root cause of unhealthy bacterial growth, rather than just masking the symptoms. This means that it's a more effective and sustainable solution for long-term vaginal health. We also appreciate the fact that the product is cruelty-free, vegetarian, non-GMO, and gluten-free, making it a more ethical and sustainable choice overall.
Overall, we would highly recommend the WINDSOR BOTANICALS Probiotic to anyone looking for a high-quality vaginal probiotic supplement. It's effective, safe, and easy to use, and it's produced with the highest standards of quality and purity. Give it a try and see the difference for yourself!
8. Omax Health Prebiotics and Probiotics Complex for WomenWe highly recommend Omax Health Prebiotics and Probiotics Complex for Women to anyone looking for the best probiotics for BV.
Pros
Cons
We have personally used Omax Health Prebiotics and Probiotics Complex for Women and found it to be very effective in balancing and restoring pH in 7-14 days. The product contains 20 billion CFU + 6 probiotic and prebiotics strains, including Acidophilus, Lactobacillus, and Bifidobacterium, to help prevent the build-up of bad bacteria in the gut and vaginal microbiome. The powerful cranberry extract incorporated in the probiotic helps prevent UTIs and supports urinary tract health.
In addition, the probiotic is dairy-free, vegan, GMO-free, gluten-free, soy-free, and contains no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. The product comes in vegetarian capsules, making it suitable for everyone.
Overall, we highly recommend Omax Health Prebiotics and Probiotics Complex for Women to anyone looking for a high-quality probiotic to support feminine health and balance.
Buying GuideWhen it comes to choosing the best probiotics for BV, there are a few features you should consider before making a purchase. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Types of StrainsDifferent strains of bacteria have different benefits for the body. Make sure to choose a probiotic that contains strains that are specifically beneficial for treating BV, such as Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus jensenii, and Lactobacillus iners.
CFU CountCFU stands for "colony-forming units," which refers to the number of live bacteria in each serving of the probiotic. Look for a product with a high CFU count, as this indicates that the probiotic contains a large number of active bacteria.
Delivery MethodProbiotics come in many different forms, including capsules, tablets, powders, and even vaginal suppositories. Consider which delivery method would work best for you and your lifestyle.
QualityIt's important to choose a high-quality probiotic from a reputable manufacturer. Look for products that have been third-party tested for purity and potency.
PriceProbiotics can vary widely in price, so consider your budget when making a purchase. Keep in mind that a higher price doesn't always guarantee a better product.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best probiotic for your needs and improve your overall vaginal health.
Frequently Asked Questions What are the top-rated probiotics for improving vaginal health?There are several probiotics that are known to be effective in improving vaginal health. Some of the top-rated probiotics include Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus jensenii, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, and Lactobacillus reuteri.
What is the best probiotic to use for BV and pH balance?The best probiotic to use for BV and pH balance is one that contains a high concentration of Lactobacillus bacteria. Look for a probiotic supplement that contains Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus jensenii, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, or Lactobacillus reuteri.
Can probiotics cure BV?While probiotics can help improve the symptoms of BV, they are not a cure for the condition. BV is caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina, and probiotics can help restore the balance of bacteria, but they cannot cure the condition.
Are there any over-the-counter probiotics that can help with BV?Yes, there are several over-the-counter probiotics that can help with BV. Look for a probiotic supplement that contains Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus jensenii, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, or Lactobacillus reuteri.
What are the benefits of taking oral probiotics for BV?Taking oral probiotics for BV can help improve the symptoms of the condition, such as vaginal odor and discharge. Probiotics can also help prevent future episodes of BV by restoring the balance of bacteria in the vagina.
What are the best vitamins to take for preventing BV?While there is no specific vitamin that can prevent BV, taking a daily multivitamin can help support overall vaginal health. Look for a multivitamin that contains vitamin C, vitamin D, and vitamin E, as these vitamins are known to support immune function and promote healthy vaginal tissue.
How To Treat Recurrent Bacterial Vaginosis, According To Ob-Gyns
Get evaluated by a health care provider to get the most accurate diagnosis, says Dr. Phillips—and find a new one if you're not getting good answers or helpful treatment as things stand.
Give health care providers all the info they need to make a complete diagnosis.
Bacterial STIs can also be strikingly similar to BV, symptom-wise. The condition can look a lot like trichomoniasis, which usually comes with funky-smelling discharge and itchiness, or Mgen, which causes unusual or smelly discharge, burning when you pee, and vulvar pain or discomfort. To avoid a misdiagnosis, Dr. Bovone recommends that providers test for all STIs, especially those with bacteria and parasites as vectors, or which come with symptoms of vaginal itching and discharge with an off odor (like gonorrhea and chlamydia). "We see it all, and can reassure you what is normal. And if anything is off, we can help," says Dr. Bovone.
Ask a doctor to test you for BV specifically, too. Dr. Phillips starts appointments with a verbal screening to clarify her patients' symptoms, then takes a vaginal swab sample to send out to a lab for analysis. Once she knows what's actually going on, she's able to devise a treatment plan.
When a doctor prescribes you treatment, follow their instructions and stick with it for the whole time you're supposed to—even if your symptoms get better.
Depending on the infection and the clinic, you might be given the option of oral or vaginal antibiotics (often, clindamycin or metronidazole) to treat BV. To target recurrent BV, Dr. Bovone explains that doctors might prescribe a longer course of treatment than they would for a one-off case, such as using an antibiotic for seven to 10 days, plus a weekly dose of a vaginal antibiotic gel for four to six months afterward to prolong the treatment. There are also newer treatments, including a clindamycin vaginal gel called Xaciato that can be applied like a tampon to deliver a strong single dose of medication.
BV can come creeping back if you veer off course with a prescribed treatment, such as not taking all of the antibiotics every day or stopping before the intended date, even if it seems like your symptoms are clearing up. "Inadequate treatment is a setup for a recurrence: BV is a disruption of the normal vaginal flora, and that flora needs to be re-established," says Dr. Bovone. It can become unclear whether the recurrence is a reinfection, or if the infection never really cleared in the first place. So, even if you're feeling better, don't stop taking medication before the set end date, or else you might risk a BV infection creeping back.
Keep things moisturized.
One way to keep your vaginal pH as close to acidic (and infection-free) as possible is to make sure there's enough lubrication on a day-to-day basis. Vaginal dryness, which can happen due to lower estrogen levels during menopause or during a period of breastfeeding, among other things, can lead to a less acidic pH, according to Dr. Minkin. She recommends a vaginal moisturizing gel like Replens to help with dryness.
Get a doctor's opinion before you use OTC suppositories, like those containing boric acid.
You may have heard of boric acid suppositories and other over-the-counter treatments that purportedly balance the vaginal microbiome. No matter what, you should speak with your health care provider to confirm you have BV before trying these out, Dr. Phillips says. From there, you should know that boric acid supplements are not FDA-approved, and that the jury's still out about whether boric acid on its own can help with BV. (SELF has a full rundown of how boric acid affects your vagina, including if you have a bacterial or yeast infection.)
Bacterial Vaginosis: What To Know And How To Treat BV In 2024
We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here's our process.
Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.
Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:Was this helpful?
Bacterial vaginosis is common in people with a vagina. Although it can clear up on its own, getting treatment can lower your chance of complications and health risks.
A healthy vagina naturally contains both "good" and "bad" bacteria. But if there's an overgrowth of bad bacteria, an infection called bacterial vaginosis (BV) can occur.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), BV is the most common cause of vaginal symptoms among women ages 14–49 in the United States. Although most prevalent among women of reproductive age, BV can also affect postmenopausal women. A 2021 research review shows that the prevalence of BV among postmenopausal women worldwide is about 17%.
A doctor will usually begin a BV treatment regimen by prescribing antibiotic bacterial vaginosis medication. People who cannot use antibiotics sometimes try bacterial vaginosis home remedies, such as over-the-counter BV treatments like:
So what's the most effective BV treatment? Let's explore below.
Prescription treatments for BVYour doctor may prescribe several bacterial vaginosis medications as initial BV treatment. They are antibiotics available in pill, cream, or suppository form.
MetronidazoleOne of the best prescription treatments for BV is an antibiotic called metronidazole. You can take it as a pill or gel.
The CDC recommends the following dosages:
If you have BV that recurs, a doctor may prescribe 500 mg of oral medication for 10–14 days. Another option is to use vaginal gel for 10 days, then twice weekly for 3–6 months.
ClindamycinClindamycin is another effective prescription treatment for BV. It's an antibiotic that you can take as:
An ovule suppository is a medication membrane that melts inside the vagina.
According to the CDC, the recommended dosages for clindamycin are:
Clindamycin cream and ovules contain oil, which may weaken latex products like condoms and diaphragms. This effect can last 72 hours for ovules and 5 days for cream.
TinidazoleIt's possible to develop adverse side effects from metronidazole or clindamycin. In this case, the doctor may prescribe tinidazole instead.
Tinidazole is also an antibiotic that you can take as a pill. For BV, there are two recommended dosages:
Another option is secnidazole. This is an antibiotic that you can take in one dose.
Secnidazole is available as granules that you can consume orally. The recommended single dose is 2 g. You can take the granules by mixing them with unsweetened applesauce or yogurt first.
Secnidazole is significantly more expensive than other treatments. However, it may be a sound option if you prefer a single-dose treatment.
Other remedies for BVPotential side effects: mild gastrointestinal side effects
Probiotics are good bacteria. Taking probiotic supplements may help introduce healthy bacteria into your body.
According to a 2019 review of 10 studies, which focused on the effects of probiotics on bacterial vaginosis, there's evidence that taking probiotic supplements daily may help treat and prevent BV.
And a research review from 2021 suggests that oral and vaginal probiotics may be an effective treatment and prevention option for BV. But researchers note that more studies are needed to determine:
If you've been prescribed an antibiotic for BV, remember that antibiotics can kill off good and bad bacteria. Probiotic supplements and yogurt can help replace good bacteria destroyed by antibiotics.
If you have BV, you could try taking probiotics daily to help treat and prevent future cases of this condition. Probiotics are available in everyday foods as well as supplements.
Pros & consPotential side effects: burning if inserted vaginally
Garlic has strong antibacterial properties, and it's long been used as a home remedy for BV.
For BV treatment, you can take garlic orally. Taking it vaginally is not recommended and has been known to burn vaginal tissue.
Research from 2020 looked at alternative treatments for BV. It suggests that taking a garlic supplement tablet could be an option for treating BV, although it also noted studies that suggest antibiotic treatment is more effective.
Pros & consPotential side effects: allergic reaction, vaginal irritation
Boric acid vaginal suppositories are commonly used to treat BV, according to research from 2019. According to the research, boric acid is typically effective at treating both BV and vaginal thrush, and few side effects occur.
Please note that boric acid is not edible — it's toxic to eat. Store it away from children and animals. However, it's considered safe to use boric acid in the vagina. But it's not safe to use if you're pregnant.
Pros & consAn excess of bad bacteria throws the vaginal environment out of balance, resulting in bacterial vaginosis symptoms like:
In some cases, BV causes no symptoms.
CausesExperts don't totally agree on BV causes, but there are several factors that may increase your risk of BV. These include:
According to the CDC, BV is more common in sexually active people. However, researchers do not understand exactly why.
A 2023 study suggests that the bacteria causing BV may be transferrable from women to men during sex, and researchers are exploring whether men can transmit it to women.
One 2020 study shows that the bacteria causing BV can live on the penis or in a man's urinary microbiome. In the study, a significant number of women developed BV within 6–12 months after having sex with men, suggesting that bacteria associated with BV were transmitted to the women during sex.
Although BV can't always be prevented, you can take the following precautions against BV:
Diagnosing bacterial vaginosisTo diagnose BV, a healthcare professional will start by taking a medical history and performing a physical pelvic exam. They will take a sample of vaginal secretions and order lab tests analyzing your vaginal cells and checking for vaginal acidity. Sometimes, clinics do these tests in the office.
Home test kits are available in drugstores but are not always accurate. These tests check for bacterial vaginosis symptoms, like changes in vaginal acidity and byproducts of a BV infection, rather than for BV itself.
Home test kits might indicate whether you have BV. But you'll want to confirm your results with a healthcare professional. They can help you decide on the best BV treatment.
According to the CDC, experts still don't fully understand how BV spreads. But in general, anything that changes the chemical balance in your vagina can increase your risk of BV.
For instance, these steps may lower your risk of BV:
Although BV can clear up on its own, there are times when it can get worse without treatment. Also, untreated bacterial vaginosis has been associated with other serious health complications.
ConsiderationsIf your bacterial vaginosis symptoms haven't resolved or started to clear up within 1 week after treatment, you can make an appointment with a doctor or gynecologist.
Also, contact a doctor if you have:
Consider making an appointment when you won't have your period. This allows the doctor to take a swab of your vaginal discharge for testing.
You can book an appointment with an OB-GYN using our Healthline FindCare tool.
Recurring BVRecurring BV is common. Despite treatment, infections recur in more than 50% of cases within 6 months to 1 year. The reasons for this high recurrence rate are not known.
Research is divided on whether recurrence can be caused by re-infection from partners during sex. The CDC says that although bacteria associated with BV can be found on male genitalia, treating male sex partners for BV has not helped prevent the recurrence of BV in women.
When both sex partners have a vagina, and one of them has BV, the infection often develops in the other partner, according to the CDC. But research has not yet determined the effectiveness of treating sexual partners with a vagina to prevent BV recurrence.
Other possible causes of recurrence include:
If bacterial vaginosis symptoms recur soon after your treatment, you may want to see a healthcare professional to consider alternative treatments. Options include different or extended drug therapies or supplementation to restore normal flora balance in the vaginal microbiome.
What is the best treatment for BV?The most effective treatment for BV is antibiotics (metronidazole is usually the most effective), but some people still prefer to treat with home remedies. In some cases, you can use both in tandem, such as take probiotics to restore good bacteria that's killed by antibiotics.
The most effective treatment for BV is antibiotics (metronidazole is usually the most effective), but some people still prefer to treat with home remedies. In some cases, you can use both in tandem, such as take probiotics to restore good bacteria that's killed by antibiotics.
Is bacterial vaginosis contagious?BV is not considered an STI. But sex increases your risk of developing the infection.
If a person with BV has sex with a person with a vagina, their partner may need to seek treatment for BV.
BV is not considered an STI. But sex increases your risk of developing the infection.
If a person with BV has sex with a person with a vagina, their partner may need to seek treatment for BV.
What is the quickest way to treat bacterial vaginosis?The fastest way to treat BV is visiting a doctor and getting a prescription to treat the condition.
A prescription treatment will likely clear up bacterial vaginosis symptoms in 2–3 days. If you're pregnant or undergoing any medical procedures, it's especially important to have your BV taken care of sooner rather than later.
The doctor may prescribe an oral or vaginal antibiotic, like:
The fastest way to treat BV is visiting a doctor and getting a prescription to treat the condition.
A prescription treatment will likely clear up bacterial vaginosis symptoms in 2–3 days. If you're pregnant or undergoing any medical procedures, it's especially important to have your BV taken care of sooner rather than later.
The doctor may prescribe an oral or vaginal antibiotic, like:
Can bacterial vaginosis go away on its own?BV might go away on its own, but it's usually not worth the wait.
If it does go away on its own, it may take around 2 weeks to resolve, and it may then keep coming back. During that time, you might experience unpleasant symptoms.
BV might go away on its own, but it's usually not worth the wait.
If it does go away on its own, it may take around 2 weeks to resolve, and it may then keep coming back. During that time, you might experience unpleasant symptoms.
How long does BV take to go away?After seeing a doctor and starting treatment with a prescribed medication, bacterial vaginosis symptoms will likely improve within 2–3 days.
However, it's important to continue taking your medication for the prescribed period of time, even if your symptoms have gone away. This will help ensure the infection has completely cleared up, typically taking about 7 days.
After seeing a doctor and starting treatment with a prescribed medication, bacterial vaginosis symptoms will likely improve within 2–3 days.
However, it's important to continue taking your medication for the prescribed period of time, even if your symptoms have gone away. This will help ensure the infection has completely cleared up, typically taking about 7 days.
Should you be treated for bacterial vaginosis if you're pregnant?If you're pregnant, it's wise to get treatment for BV as soon as possible. That's because BV can increase the risk of early delivery and other complications.
It's safe to take antibiotics for BV while you're pregnant. A vaginal suppository antibiotic is typically prescribed to avoid side effects like nausea, vomiting, metallic taste, heartburn, and others.
If you're pregnant, it's wise to get treatment for BV as soon as possible. That's because BV can increase the risk of early delivery and other complications.
It's safe to take antibiotics for BV while you're pregnant. A vaginal suppository antibiotic is typically prescribed to avoid side effects like nausea, vomiting, metallic taste, heartburn, and others.
What is the difference between a yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis?BV and vaginal yeast infections have similar symptoms but different causes and treatments. Both cause inflammation of the vagina, also known as vaginitis. Both can also cause itchiness, but yeast infections do this more.
One of the differences between BV and a yeast infection is that BV produces a foul-smelling, "fishy" odor, while a yeast infection produces a slight "yeasty" aroma to no vaginal odor at all.
Additionally, a yeast infection may cause redness and inflammation of the vulva, and white, "cottage-cheese-like" discharge, while BV doesn't produce such symptoms.
To determine whether a vaginal infection is BV or a yeast infection, a doctor may:
BV and vaginal yeast infections have similar symptoms but different causes and treatments. Both cause inflammation of the vagina, also known as vaginitis. Both can also cause itchiness, but yeast infections do this more.
One of the differences between BV and a yeast infection is that BV produces a foul-smelling, "fishy" odor, while a yeast infection produces a slight "yeasty" aroma to no vaginal odor at all.
Additionally, a yeast infection may cause redness and inflammation of the vulva, and white, "cottage-cheese-like" discharge, while BV doesn't produce such symptoms.
To determine whether a vaginal infection is BV or a yeast infection, a doctor may:
If you can't use or access antibiotics, certain bacterial vaginosis home remedies — namely probiotics, garlic (orally only), and boric acid suppositories — could treat BV. However, a 2018 research review indicates that these natural BV treatments aren't as effective as antibiotics.
The CDC reports that while some studies have evaluated supplementing Lactobacillus and other probiotics vaginally to treat BV, research does not support this to replace or add to standard BV therapy.
A 2019 study suggests other potential alternatives to antibiotic treatment, though these need to be done under a healthcare professional's care:
A 2023 study points to the development of antimicrobial resistance worldwide and calls for development of new alternative non-antimicrobial therapies for BV.
If you can't use or access antibiotics, certain bacterial vaginosis home remedies — namely probiotics, garlic (orally only), and boric acid suppositories — could treat BV. However, a 2018 research review indicates that these natural BV treatments aren't as effective as antibiotics.
The CDC reports that while some studies have evaluated supplementing Lactobacillus and other probiotics vaginally to treat BV, research does not support this to replace or add to standard BV therapy.
A 2019 study suggests other potential alternatives to antibiotic treatment, though these need to be done under a healthcare professional's care:
A 2023 study points to the development of antimicrobial resistance worldwide and calls for development of new alternative non-antimicrobial therapies for BV.
Although mild cases of BV may resolve independently, treatment can help lower the risk of complications. The most effective options are prescription antibiotics. These include metronidazole and clindamycin, which you may take as a pill or cream.
In some cases, a doctor might prescribe tinidazole or secnidazole. These medications are also antibiotics. Taking probiotics, garlic capsules, and boric acid may also help.
Though bacterial vaginosis symptoms might improve within a few days, be sure to take all your medication as directed. This will help make sure that your infection has completely resolved after treatment. If you have recurring BV, you can work with a doctor to find long-term solutions.
...
Comments
Post a Comment