Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial Vaginosis is caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina and will affect a third of women in the UK at some point in their life. 

Metronidazole is an antibiotic available on prescription for the treatment of Bacterial Vaginosis in people aged 18 years or over, who have tested positive.

To start your free online consultation please select the treatment you require from the options below. Once you have selected your treatment you will need create an account with NationWide Pharmacies and fill out the medical assessment form. Your medical assessment form will then be reviewed by our doctor and your order despatched upon approval.

What is Bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina. There are two types of bacteria present in the vagina, good bacteria, which help fight infections, and bad bacteria which can cause infection. BV occurs when there is a build-up of bad bacteria in the vagina causing inflammation which can result in a fishy smelling discharge being produced. Bacterial vaginosis can increase the risk of premature birth and miscarriage in pregnant women, however BV without visible symptoms will pose no health risk. If you have discharge you should get tested immediately in order to rule out other STI conditions that produce similar symptoms.

Bacterial Vaginosis Symptoms:

The principal symptom of bacterial vaginosis is a watery vaginal discharge, white or grey in colour with an unpleasant fishy smell. Other symptoms may include pain during intercourse or when urinating and light bleeding.

Over 50% of women who have BV do not show any symptoms. This is called, asymptomatic  BV and does not require testing or treatment and will pose no health risk.

Health Implications:

If left untreated BV can increase the risk of problems in pregnant women including higher risk of miscarriage, premature birth. Because of the higher levels of bad bacteria present in women with BV they are also more prone to catching STI from sexual partners.

Bacterial vaginosis Treatments:

Bacterial vaginosis is easy to treat with antibiotics. Metronidazole is available for the treatment of BV from NationWide Pharmacies.