How do I get rid of BV that won't go away?
This can be frustrating. Bacterial vaginosis makes the reproductive tract vulnerable to infection or inflammation. So your doctor will test and treat you with antibiotics if you are: Having symptoms that won't go away.
What happens if BV treatment doesn't work?
If your symptoms are due to a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and not bacterial vaginosis, you may infect a sex partner if you delay treatment. You may also develop more serious complications of STIs such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). To prevent the spread of a possible infection, avoid sex.
Why does my bacterial vaginosis keep coming back after treatment?
It's common for BV to come back, usually within 3 months. You'll need to take treatment for longer (up to 6 months) if you keep getting BV (you get it more than twice in 6 months). A GP or sexual health clinic will recommend how long you need to treat it.
What if BV doesn't go away with metronidazole?
If you have persistent BV (ie it does not settle down with the first treatment you try) then your doctor may want to take further vaginal swabs to check whether there is another cause of the discharge. They will usually suggest that you use the seven-day course of metronidazole if you have not had this before.
Can you still have BV after treatment?
If you're diagnosed with BV, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. Unfortunately, BV often returns after a few months. However, taking the following steps may help reduce your risk of recurring BV infections.
Will my BV ever go away?
At times, BV will go away without treatment. However, treatment can help avoid the increased chance of some serious health risks associated with BV, including: Getting or transmitting HIV; Delivering your baby too early if you have BV while pregnant; and.
How can I stop getting BV so much?
Steps that might lower your risk of BV include:Keeping your vaginal bacteria balanced. Use warm water only to clean the outside of your vagina. ... Not douching. Douching upsets the balance of good and harmful bacteria in your vagina. ... Not having sex. ... Limiting your number of sex partners.
What foods to avoid when you have BV?
"Foods that are processed, such as packaged sweets, popcorn, smoked meats, dairy, and dried fruits, can affect your immune system, and if your immune system is oppressed by your nutrition, this can cause bacteria to populate the area, causing itching, infections, including bacterial vaginosis," says Dr. Posina.
What is the best probiotic for BV?
The best probiotics for BV are products that include both Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14 strains. These can be found in both the Fem-Dophilus from Jarrow Formulas and RepHresh Pro B probiotic supplements.
How do you treat BV for long term?
Recommended treatment for recurrent BV consists of an extended course of metronidazole treatment (500 mg twice daily for 10-14 days); if ineffective, metronidazole vaginal gel 0.75% for 10 days, followed by two times per week for 3-6 months, is an alternate treatment regimen.