We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

How do I Choose the Best Remedy for Bacterial Vaginosis?

Nicole Madison
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 12,543
Share

The best remedy for bacterial vaginosis is usually a prescription medication. Antibiotics, either taken in oral form or inserted into the vagina, are usually effective at getting rid of the bacteria responsible for bacterial vaginosis. For most women, oral antibiotics are the best treatment for a case of bacterial vaginosis, as those that are inserted into the vagina are often a bit less effective. Sometimes a woman may also consider a home remedy for bacterial vaginosis, but home remedies are not usually reliable for treating this particular bacterial infection.

In most cases, the best remedy for a case of bacterial vaginosis is an antibiotic called metronidazole, which is often sold under the brand name Flagyl®. Metronidazole is typically prescribed in pill form, but can be administered through the vagina as well. The gel form that is inserted into the vagina for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis is referred to as Metrogel®. Woman may also use a gel called clindamycin as an alternative to Metrogel®. It is also worth noting, however, that some cases of bacterial vaginosis go away on their own.

In general, oral metronidazole is more effective for treating bacterial vaginosis than vaginal applications. In some cases, however, a woman may prefer the vaginally administered medication despite the fact that it is a little less effective than the oral medication. This is due to the fact that some people have reported unpleasant side effects while taking metronidazole. Side effects may occur with the vaginal gels as well, but they are usually minor and less likely to develop.

Though metronidazole is usually considered the best remedy for bacterial vaginosis, there are other antibiotics that may prove effective as well. One of the alternative treatments for bacterial vaginosis is called tinidazole. Though it may not be as effective for treating bacterial vaginosis as metronidazole, it is considered a reliable treatment. It is also associated with fewer side effects than metronidazole.

A woman may also feel tempted to try a home remedy for bacterial vaginosis. Usually, however, home remedies fail, and a woman may still need medical treatment after she tries them. Doctors usually recommend treatment, however, because the bacterial infection can cause complications. For example, bacterial vaginosis can lead to miscarriage, preterm labor, and the post-childbirth infection of the uterus. Untreated bacterial vaginosis may also contribute to the development of pelvic inflammatory disease, which may lead to severe illness and permanent infertility.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Nicole Madison
By Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison's love for learning inspires her work as a WiseGeek writer, where she focuses on topics like homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. Her passion for knowledge is evident in the well-researched and informative articles she authors. As a mother of four, Nicole balances work with quality family time activities such as reading, camping, and beach trips.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
By donasmrs — On May 27, 2014

I know that antibiotics are required for bacterial vaginosis, but I don't think that they can work alone, at least not for recurrent bacterial vaginosis. I had three bacterial vaginosis infections within less than a year. Each time, I took antibiotics which made the infection go away for a while but then return.

I have been able to overcome these recurrent infections by alkalizing my body and supporting my immune system with vitamins and antioxidants. I started drinking alkaline water and supplements with antioxidants like grapeseed extract and pomegranates. It was after these changes that the infection went away for good. If the body is alkaline, bacteria cannot survive and the immune system can fight invaders more easily.

By fBoyle — On May 26, 2014

@literally45-- Probiotics do help with bacterial infections but I have not tried them for bacterial vaginosis. I think it would be okay to support your treatment with probiotic supplements but I don't think that it's a good idea to replace treatment with probiotics. I also have not heard of probiotics being used vaginally. I think you should follow your doctor's directions for treatment and take probiotic supplements orally in addition. You could also just eat plain yogurt since yogurt naturally contains probiotics.

By literally45 — On May 26, 2014

Has anyone tried probiotic supplements for bacterial vaginosis? I heard that using probiotics internally and vaginally can treat the condition.

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison's love for learning inspires her work as a WiseGeek writer, where she focuses on topics like...
Learn more
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/how-do-i-choose-the-best-remedy-for-bacterial-vaginosis.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.