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I have bacterial vaginosis that recur. What medication can help me?

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Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am having BV symptoms and itchiness in my vagina. I have not taken any medication, and my primary gynecologist is unavailable at the moment. This has been going on for three days, and I have not changed soaps or been sexually active in months.

I had BV before due to changing feminine wash and douching, which I no longer do.

Currently, I am taking Bupropion 150 mg, Sertraline 50 mg, and a Women’s daily vitamin. Previously, I used Metronidazole vagina gel 0.75 %.

How to treat BV?

Please help.

Answered by Dr. Usaid Yousuf

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Usaid Yousuf is an expert in General Practitioner, with extensive experience and a deep understanding of all treatment modalities within the field.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Based on your symptoms, discharge with odor and itching, and it sounds like your previous history of bacterial vaginosis (BV) that responded to Metronidazole gel, this does sound consistent with a recurrence of BV.

A three-day duration is not unusual, but since the symptoms are bothersome, treatment will likely be needed.

The most likely cause can be recurrent bacterial vaginosis due to overgrowth of vaginal bacteria. Some other possible causes to consider are:

  1. Candida (yeast) infection.

  2. Mixed vaginitis.

  3. Irritant vaginitis.

Recommended tests for you now are:

  1. Vaginal swab or culture.

  2. Vaginal pH testing and microscopy are seen in the clinic.

Until your gynecologist is back, the best approach is supportive care:

  1. Keep the area clean and dry.

  2. Avoid douching.

  3. Avoid perfumed soaps, washes, or feminine hygiene products.

  4. Wear cotton underwear.

  5. Probiotic-rich foods may be helpful.

  6. Do not start antibiotics without a prescription.

Once your gynecologist is available, they may prescribe Metronidazole gel again or an oral course, depending on the severity and exam findings. If BV continues to recur, longer or suppressive treatment may sometimes be recommended.

Please follow up with your gynecologist when they return so you can receive the appropriate prescription. If you can obtain any swab results, you can share those as well.

I hope this helps. Follow up with me for more queries. I am here to help you.

Thank you.

Answered by
Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At March 2, 2026
Reviewed At March 2, 2026

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Usaid Yousuf is an expert in General Practitioner, with extensive experience and a deep understanding of all treatment modalities within the field.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

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Recurrent Bacterial Vaginosis Decision Helper

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This tool provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Usaid Yousuf

General Practitioner

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Usaid Yousuf is an expert in General Practitioner, with extensive experience and a deep understanding of all treatment modalities within the field.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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