Bacterial Vaginosis is primarily treated with antibiotics, and the treatment is generally straightforward and effective. The most commonly used medications are metronidazole and clindamycin.
Common Treatment Options
- Metronidazole
- Available as oral tablets (typically 500 mg twice daily for 7 days) or as a vaginal gel (0.75% applied once daily for 5 days).
- Patients are advised to avoid alcohol during treatment and for a day after due to possible nausea or stomach pain.
- Brand names include Flagyl (oral) and Metrogel-Vaginal (gel).
- Clindamycin
- Available as vaginal cream (2% cream applied once daily at bedtime for 7 days) or oral tablets.
- The cream may weaken latex condoms, so barrier contraception is recommended during treatment and for a few days after.
- Brand names include Cleocin and Clindesse.
Additional Treatments
- Tinidazole and Secnidazole: Alternative oral antibiotics with similar effectiveness, sometimes used when first-line treatments fail or for recurrent BV.
- Probiotics: Current evidence is insufficient to recommend probiotics as a replacement for antibiotics but may be considered adjunctively in recurrent cases.
Important Instructions
- Complete the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms subside early to prevent recurrence.
- Sexual partners with female anatomy may require evaluation and treatment to prevent reinfection.
- Avoid sexual intercourse during treatment for optimal effectiveness.
- Recurrence is common; follow-up with the healthcare provider may be necessary.
Conclusion
Treatment of bacterial vaginosis is simple and highly effective using metronidazole or clindamycin in oral or vaginal forms. Proper adherence to the prescribed regimen and preventive measures are essential to reduce recurrence and improve reproductive health outcomes. Consulting a healthcare professional ensures correct diagnosis and tailored treatment.