Bacterial Vaginosis Treatment

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal condition caused by an imbalance of bacteria, where harmful bacteria outnumber the beneficial ones like lactobacilli that help maintain a healthy pH. It’s not a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but triggers include unprotected sex, multiple partners, douching, scented products, smoking, and IUD use. While usually not dangerous, untreated BV can increase the risk of pregnancy complications and make you more susceptible to STIs.

Classic signs of Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) include a strong, fishy vaginal odour (especially after sex), thin grey or white discharge, and a feeling of vaginal wetness. Unlike thrush, BV is usually not itchy or painful. Some women may have no symptoms at all, but treatment can still be beneficial.

BV is usually diagnosed based on your symptoms and medical history, such as the characteristic odour and discharge. A vaginal pH test (with BV typically causing a pH above 4.5) or a Canestest self-test can help distinguish it from thrush. If symptoms are persistent, unclear, or keep coming back, a clinician may take a vaginal swab to confirm the diagnosis.

At EveryDayMeds, we offer a range of prescription and over-the-counter options for BV relief. Treatments include oral antibiotics like Metronidazole, vaginal treatments such as Zidoval Gel, Dalacin Cream, and Fluomizin tablets, as well as pH-balancing gels like Canesbalance and Balance Activ. Canestest helps identify if symptoms are due to BV or thrush, and Canesbalance Vaginal Pessaries support flora balance. Most women notice improvement within 2–3 days, but it’s important to complete the full course even if symptoms improve early.

Yes — recurrent BV is common, with up to 50% of women experiencing a recurrence within 6–12 months. To help prevent it, avoid douching and scented products in the genital area, use gentle pH-neutral cleansers, and consider maintenance products like Canesbalance or Balance Activ after treatment. Practising safe sex, especially with new partners, can also help. If BV returns more than 3–4 times a year, speak to a healthcare professional about long-term management options.

BV is not considered a sexually transmitted infection, but sexual activity — especially with new or multiple partners — can contribute to its development and recurrence. Male partners don’t need treatment, while female partners may share bacterial imbalances and should be evaluated if they have symptoms. It’s best to avoid sex during treatment to reduce the risk of reinfection and allow the vaginal environment to stabilise.