Should You Buy BV Over the Counter Medication

Similar to our digestive system, the vagina is home to different types of bacteria. Bacterial vaginosis usually occurs due to a disproportion in the bacteria present in the vagina. This common infection appears in women who are sexually active but, in rare cases, it can also occur among those who have never had sex. Experts link bacterial vaginosis to sexual activity but, it is not a contagious disease. Studies reveal that one-third of the women affected by bacterial vaginosis do not need treatment, as it resolves quickly without treatment. You are susceptible to sexually transmitted diseases and complicated pregnancy if you have bacterial vaginosis. It is a mild infection, but it could make you vulnerable to other illnesses.

If you suspect bacterial vaginosis or BV, trying over-the-counter medication is not a wise idea. It is essential to consult your physician for prescription antibiotics, as it is more effective for vaginal infections than home remedies. Although it might recur, BV is successfully curable with antibiotics. However, there is no home treatment for bacterial vaginosis, as most of us might expect. Over-the-counter products and medications meant for yeast infection will only exacerbate BV, so avoid using them for bacterial infections.

Some common symptoms to look out for

More than 80% of the women seldom experience any symptoms of bacterial vaginosis. A few symptoms or signs that you need to look out for include the following

.    Itching and soreness in the vagina

.    Fishy odor after sexual intercourse

.    Greyish or greenish vaginal discharge

.    Painful urination

How to treat and manage bacterial vaginosis?

The most effective treatment for bacterial vaginosis is antibiotics such as Metronidazole. You can find these pills and gel under the brand name Flagyl. Taking the tablet twice a day for seven days or as a single dose for one day can reduce symptoms. However, it is not free from side effects and, you might experience loss of appetite, nausea, headache, dry mouth, and an upset stomach.

Clindamycin is another antibiotic for BV that can inhibit the growth of bacteria. Doctors often prescribe this cream when the infection keeps recurring even; after using metronidazole. Clindamycin is an effective treatment but, it may include some side effects.

Tinidazole is another effective medication with fewer side effects compared to other antibiotics. This antibiotic is also far more effective as you only need to take one tablet for two days.

BV over-the-counter medication includes probiotics and garlic capsules which are safe. You can prevent BV by wearing cotton underwear, limiting the number of sexual partners, avoiding douching, and using barrier methods during sexual intercourse. It is possible to get bacterial vaginosis multiple times. All you need is a single course of antibiotics to clear the infection!