Bacterial vaginosis is one of the most common vaginal infections that affect many women between the age group of 15 years to 45 years. the infection is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria due to changes in vaginal ph.

The vagina maintains a healthy ecosystem of good bacteria which keeps the harmful bacteria and yeast in check. However, a change in vaginal flora can cause a disbalance leading to an overgrowth of bad bacteria. External factors like douching, vaginal deodorants, scented soaps, etc. can contribute to a disruption in vaginal ph.

Some of the common signs of bacterial vaginosis include pain, discomfort, itching, burning, abnormal vaginal discharge, etc. If left untreated, the infection can cause serious complications, especially for pregnant women.

Let us discuss all that you need to know about the treatment of bacterial vaginosis.

1. Antibiotics

Antibiotics are the most common treatment for bacterial vaginosis. They help restore the vaginal ecosystem and control bacterial overgrowth. Some of the common medications prescribed by a doctor include Metronidazole, Clindamycin, Tinidazole, Secnidazole, etc.

Metronidazole is available both, as an oral pill and a vaginal cream that you insert in your vagina. It is essential to avoid using alcohol during the treatment and at least for a day after to avoid the chances of stomach upset.

Clindamycin is available as a cream for your vagina whereas Tinidazole is an antibiotic pill for bacterial vaginosis. Secnidazole is also an oral medication. However, the method of intake is different from Tinidazole.

The medication comes in a packet of granules that your sprinkle on your soft food and eats in one dose. Also, you need to eat the food in thirty minutes and avoid chewing on the granules.

However, these antibiotic medications are not available over the counter. Hence, you need to have a prescription to buy these medicines.

In some cases, a patient may suffer from recurrent episodes even after treatment with an antibiotic. Hence, you need to have a prescription filled out for emergency usage.

The treatment with antibiotics can also be supplemented with over-the-counter medication for better results.

2. Boric acid

Boric acid has been used for more than a hundred years in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis. The acid is derived from the boron element, which is found in minerals. They are highly effective in treating bacterial vaginosis and are widely used medication for BV over the counter. You can purchase them from your local medical shop or order them online.

As per a study boric acid removes bacterial mucus from the vagina. This also helps in removing infection-causing microbes like bacteria. Hence, it is an effective home remedy for BV. Boric acid suppositories are not safe for oral consumption and need to be kept away from children and pets.

The recommended doses of the medication are 600mg for seven days. However, you can extend the medication up to fourteen days for severe infections.

You can also make your suppositories at home with the help of size 0 gelatin capsules. All you need to do is fill the capsules with 600 mg boric acid.

However, if you are pregnant, it is advisable to consult your doctor before using the suppositories vaginally.

3. Probiotics

If you are looking for medication for BV over the counter, you can also choose probiotics as a treatment alternative. They are found in food items like yogurt and are available as food supplements over the counter.

Probiotics can help correct the vaginal disbalance by restoring the levels of healthy bacteria. These healthy bacteria contain the overgrowth of harmful bacteria and treat vaginal infections. Also, they help in avoiding future episodes of bacterial vaginosis.

These are some of the treatment methods that can help you in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis.