STI's 2

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) Treatment

Bacterial vaginosis (BV), or gardnerella vaginalis, is a common infection of the vagina. It's harmless and easily treated. It's not classed as a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

a common vaginal infection that can be very easily treated

Common symptoms of bacterial vaginosis

The most common symptoms of BV include:

  • A thin, greyish-white vaginal discharge

  • A strong or unpleasant fishy smell, particularly after sex

  • Changes in the amount of vaginal discharge

Some women with bacterial vaginosis have no symptoms at all. BV does not usually cause soreness, itching or irritation, so if you experience these symptoms, another condition may be responsible.

What causes BV?

The exact cause of bacterial vaginosis is not always clear, but it happens when the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted. Factors that may increase the risk include:

  • Having a new sexual partner or multiple partners

  • Using perfumed soaps or vaginal products

  • Vaginal douching

  • Smoking

  • Natural hormonal changes

BV can affect any woman and it is not caused by poor hygiene.

Bacterial vaginosis treatment

Bacterial vaginosis often requires treatment with antibiotics to restore the natural balance of bacteria. One of the most commonly prescribed treatments is Metronidazole.

Metronidazole works by reducing the growth of the bacteria responsible for BV and is an effective option for many women. It is important to take the medicine exactly as directed and complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.

While taking Metronidazole, you should avoid drinking alcohol during treatment and for the recommended period after completing the course, as this can cause unpleasant side effects.

How WebMed Pharmacy can help

At WebMed Pharmacy, we understand that vaginal health concerns can feel personal and sometimes difficult to discuss. Our online service offers a discreet and convenient way to access professional advice and treatment for bacterial vaginosis.

If you think you may have BV, you can complete a confidential online assessment that will be reviewed by a qualified prescriber. Where appropriate, Metronidazole treatment may be recommended to help manage the condition safely and effectively.

Ordering online means you can access treatment without the need for a face-to-face appointment, with discreet packaging and delivery to your chosen address.

When should you seek medical advice?

Although bacterial vaginosis is common, you should seek medical advice if:

  • It is your first episode of unusual vaginal discharge

  • You are pregnant and think you may have BV

  • Your symptoms return frequently

  • Treatment does not improve your symptoms

  • You have pain, bleeding, sores or other unusual symptoms

A healthcare professional can help rule out other conditions and ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment.

Order bacterial vaginosis treatment online

Please complete your medical consultation questionnaire and then select your preferred treatment. Then our doctor will review your questionnaire to ensure that it is safe and suitable for you.

To purchase this treatment you must complete the consultation to make sure it is safe and suitable for you.

How our Bacterial vaginosis service works

  1. Complete a confidential medical questionnaire to be reviewed by our doctor.

  2. Free consultation and clinical review of your details, to ensure that we select the right medication for your needs. 

  3. Courier next working day delivery in a 1 hour time slot, packaged in discreet packaging with no mention of it's contents or where it's from. 

  4. We are the only online pharmacy to offer this as standard at no extra cost. 

Medically reviewed by
Dr Kate Antrobus MBBS DFSRH MRCGP
04 February 2022

more conditions we can help with

Ureaplasma urealyticum

Easily test and treat this common bacterial infection.

Sexual Health Screens

Be STI safe and sure in yourself and your sexual partners.