Got the itchy, fishy smell that won’t quit? That’s likely bacterial vaginosis (BV). It’s common, but you don’t have to live with it. Below you’ll find the most effective ways to clear it up and keep it from coming back.
The first line of defense is a prescription from your doctor. Most providers start with metronidazole—either a 5‑day oral dose or a 7‑day gel you apply inside the vagina. Tinidazole works the same way and can be a good alternative if you can’t tolerate metronidazole.
These antibiotics target the anaerobic bacteria that crowd out the healthy lactobacilli. You’ll usually notice improvement within a few days, but finish the full course to avoid a bounce‑back.
If you’ve had multiple recurrences, your doctor might suggest a longer regimen, like a 14‑day metronidazole course, or a maintenance plan with a weekly dose for a month. Probiotic supplements with Lactobacillus crispatus or rhamnosus can help restore the natural balance after antibiotics.
While prescription meds clear the infection, everyday habits can stop it from returning. Keep the vaginal area dry; moisture fuels the bad bacteria. Change out of wet clothes—like swimsuits or sweaty workout gear—within an hour.
Avoid scented soaps, douches, and feminine wipes. They disrupt the pH and strip away protective bacteria. Stick to plain, unscented products and use lukewarm water only.
Eating a diet rich in fermented foods—yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut—feeds good bacteria from the inside. Some women find that a daily probiotic capsule reduces the odds of a flare‑up.
Stress matters, too. High cortisol levels can shift vaginal flora. Simple stress‑busting moves—short walks, deep breathing, or a quick workout—can keep hormones in check.
If you’re sexually active, using condoms can lower the risk of passing or picking up the bacteria. It’s also a good idea for your partner to get checked if you both keep getting BV.
When symptoms pop up again, try a home test kit to confirm it’s BV and not a yeast infection or STI. Knowing the cause helps you choose the right treatment fast.
Bottom line: start with a doctor‑prescribed antibiotic, then back it up with dry‑friendly habits, a probiotic boost, and stress control. Follow these steps and you’ll beat BV and stay symptom‑free longer.
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