How Effective is
Metronidazole Gel for BV?

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection. And while BV isn’t a sexually transmitted infection (STI) itself, it can come with some uncomfortable symptoms—or no symptoms at all. Besides that, having BV can also increase your risk of getting an STI, which is why treating this infection is so important. There are a number of BV treatment options available, but many physicians and medical experts use metronidazole gel to get their patients fast and effective relief. But, how effective is metronidazole gel for BV? Read on to learn more about BV, metronidazole gel, and where you can discreetly get metronidazole gel for BV if you need it.

What is bacterial vaginosis (BV)?

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal infection in the US, with an estimated 30% of women having BV at some point during their lives. But, even though this infection is so common, over 50% of people with BV don’t experience any symptoms. And what causes this sneaky infection? Well, BV is caused by an imbalance in the bacteria that is naturally found in the vagina—aka your vaginal microbiome. This imbalance happens when bad, infection-causing bacteria outnumber the good bacteria in your microbiome.

Potential BV risk factors

Scientists are still determining the root cause of BV, but several factors appear to contribute to an increased risk of developing BV. The first is engaging with new partners or multiple sexual partners, which is still being studied. In general, BV is reported more often by people with multiple partners or a new partner. This may have to do with the introduction of new or different kinds of bacteria into your vaginal environment that throws things out of whack.

The next risk factor is using water or other solutions to rinse out the vagina, sometimes referred to as “douching.” This can upset the balance of bacteria and, as a practice, is unnecessary. Douching can not only lead to BV, but also yeast infections, and has no practical benefit. Your vagina is self-cleaning—washing the external skin and labia with water and a gentle cleanser is the only cleansing necessary.

The final risk factor is simply a natural lack of Lactobacilli bacteria. This bacterial imbalance may need to be treated with metronidazole gel for BV. Unfortunately, some people are just predisposed to developing BV infections due to the natural balance of their vaginal microbiome. The good news is that taking probiotics regularly can help support a healthy vaginal environment and ward off infection.

Symptoms of BV

As we mentioned, it’s very possible to have BV without any symptoms. But, symptomatic cases of BV are still common so it’s important to know what to watch out for.

Symptoms of BV can include:

• Burning during urination
• Vaginal itching
• Foul-smelling “fishy” vaginal odor
• Thin vaginal discharge that can be gray, white, or green in color

The vaginal odor from BV is often more noticeable after sex and during and right after your period. BV can also make sex uncomfortable or cause pain during urination.

Please note that if you are experiencing excessive or foul-smelling vaginal discharge, abnormal bleeding, or vulvar irritation, you need to contact a healthcare provider. A definitive diagnosis from a trained professional is the best way to start treating the symptoms. Of the treatments they may recommend, metronidazole gel for BV is common.

Is metronidazole gel for BV effective?

Now that we know what BV risk factors and symptoms are, it’s time to talk about how to get rid of BV if you have it. Antibiotics are the recommended treatment for BV and they’re available either as an oral tablet or a topical cream. The antibiotics metronidazole and clindamycin are both effective regimens for treating BV. Let’s look at the details.

Metronidazole is a common medication used to treat all kinds of bacterial infections. When using either tablets or metronidazole gel for BV, the medication fights against the bacteria that causes BV–called Gardnerella vaginalis. Meronidazole one of the safest and most effective treatments for BV and comes with relatively few side effects—primarily headaches and nausea.

But, how effective is it? Well, studies show that taking metronidazole gel for BV is just as effective as taking the same medication as an oral tablet. Four weeks after treatment, between 70% and 80% of women who took metronidazole gel or tablets were free from BV. Plus, metronidazole gel can save you from experiencing any gastrointestinal distress—a potential side effect of the oral tablet.

Can you pee after inserting metronidazole gel?

Wondering if you can pee after inserting metronidazole gel for BV? That’s a totally valid question, as it’s natural to want the medication to be as effective as possible. Luckily, peeing after inserting metronidazole gel is totally fine. Though some of the gel might leak out over time, most of the medication will stay inside your vagina. Using the bathroom won’t keep metronidazole gel from doing its job or impact its effectiveness. That said, it might be more comfortable to use the bathroom before inserting metronidazole gel—just make sure your external skin is clean and your hands are sanitized.

Can I use metronidazole gel while on my period?

BV and other infections often cause vaginal discharge. Add your period into the mix and things can get overwhelming! That’s why a common question is: can you use metronidazole gel while on your period? The answer is yes, you can. But, you shouldn’t use tampons or menstrual cups at the same time–stick to sanitary pads instead.

If you start your period while using metronidazole gel, make sure to finish your whole treatment. And if you’d rather not use metronidazole gel for BV while on your period? Antibiotic tablets are another great option. Discuss your preferences and any concerns with a healthcare provider and you’ll be good to go.

Where to go for BV relief

While bacterial vaginosis isn’t “dangerous” on its own, BV symptoms are frustrating and this infection can increase your risk of getting sexually transmitted infections. That’s why exploring effective treatment options like metronidazole gel is so important! If you believe that you have BV, then it’s time to get the diagnosis and relief you need.

Wisp offers you the prescriptions and over-the-counter treatments that you need, online and without an in-office appointment. Contact us today to start your journey to relief from this pesky infection and order either antibiotic tablets or metronidazole gel for BV based on your preferences. One of our healthcare providers can discuss your issues remotely and can offer a diagnosis. You can get a prescription sent to a local pharmacy for pick up or shipped directly to your home. Remember, when you order from us, everything will be sent in discreet packaging so that your health remains your business. You’ll be saying buh-bye to BV in no time.