Bacterial Vaginosis

1 medicine

Bacterial vaginosis is a common vaginal infection caused by an imbalance of naturally occurring bacteria, treated with antibiotics such as metronidazole.

Flagyl

Metronidazole

200/400mg

Flagyl is a antibiotics medication containing Metronidazole, available as 200/400mg tablets.

from $0.34 / tablet View

Key facts

  • Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal infection in women of reproductive age; it happens when naturally occurring vaginal bacteria grow out of balance.
  • It is not a sexually transmitted infection, though sexual activity can shift the vaginal environment. Typical signs are a thin, grey or white discharge and a fishy odour, especially after sex; some women have no symptoms.
  • The standard treatment is metronidazole, an antibiotic taken as a short oral course or applied as a vaginal gel.
  • See a doctor promptly for fever, pelvic pain, or symptoms that worsen despite treatment.

What bacterial vaginosis is

BV develops when the balance of bacteria naturally present in the vagina shifts, and certain types multiply faster than usual. It is not caught through sex in the way a sexually transmitted infection is, though sexual activity can influence the vaginal environment. Many women notice a thin, grey or white discharge with a distinctive fishy smell, particularly after intercourse; mild itching or irritation can occur, but plenty of women have no symptoms at all.

How it is treated

BV responds well to antibiotics. The standard option is metronidazole, which targets the anaerobic bacteria responsible for the imbalance. It is taken either as a short course of tablets or as a vaginal gel applied over several days. Finishing the full course matters even if symptoms clear quickly: stopping early can allow the infection to come back.

Recurrence and prevention

BV recurrence is common. If symptoms return within a few weeks, a longer or repeat course of treatment may be needed. Avoiding scented soaps, vaginal douching, and other products that disturb the natural bacterial balance helps reduce the chance of it returning after treatment.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor promptly if you develop a fever, pelvic pain, or symptoms that worsen despite treatment, as these can point to a different or additional infection that needs its own assessment.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.