BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS
PROBLEM
You have been diagnosed with a vaginal infection, also known as bacterial vaginosis (BV). This is a very common problem that has a fishy vaginal discharge.
The odor increases after sexual intercourse, but it is not considered a sexually transmitted infection. Recurrence is common, and your partner may also need to be treated.
YOU CAN BE TREATED IN PREGNANCY
During pregnancy BV has been associated with premature rupture of the membranes and preterm labor.
CAUSE
BV is caused by an alteration in the normal flora of the vagina. There are many contributing pathogens and factors, including the routine use of douches, antibiotic use, menses, and pregnancy. Women do not get BV from having sex with men. However, when a woman has been diagnosed with BV she is more likely to catch other types of infections from her partner. Women who have sex with other women are likely to pass along a vaginal infection to a sexual partner.
PREVENTION
A.Wear cotton panties or panties with a cotton crotch.
B.Do not wear tight, restrictive clothes, such as tight jeans.
C.Leave your underwear off during sleep.
D.Limit tub bathing and the use of hot tubs or whirlpools.
E.Avoid the use of bubble bath, feminine deodorant sprays, and perfumed sanitary products (sanitary pads, tampons, and toilet paper).
F.Practice good hygiene:
1.Wipe with toilet tissue from front to back after urinating and bowel movements.
2.Wipe from front to back using clean towels with each bath or shower.
3.Change your tampons and pads often during your period.
G.Routine douching destroys the normal vaginal flora. Avoid douching unless you are prescribed a medicated douche.
H.Practice safe sex and use condoms to protect against sexually transmitted infections.
TREATMENT PLAN
A.Try the prevention tips to decrease the recurrence of BV.
B.You may be given a prescription for pills or vaginal creams.
C.Do not use a tampon while using vaginal creams because it will absorb the medication.
D.Clindamycin is an oil-based, medicated cream used to treat BV and will weaken latex condoms for at least 72 hours after stopping the therapy.
E.All treatments (medications and douches) may be used during your period.
F.Metronidazole (Flagyl) oral tablets may be prescribed. The side effects include a sharp, unpleasant metallic taste in the mouth, furry tongue, and some urinary tract symptoms. Please remind your provider if you have a history of seizures or if you are on any blood-thinning drug. Alcohol should not be ingested while taking the antibiotic metronidazole because it could cause serious side effects.
OTHER METHODS OF TREATMENT
A.Vinegar and water douches: One tablespoon of white vinegar in one pint of water. Douche one to two times a week.
B.Lactobacillus acidophilus culture four to six tablets daily.
C.Garlic suppositories: Place one peeled clove of garlic wrapped in a cloth dipped in olive oil into your vagina overnight, and change daily for five nights. You will not smell like garlic.
D.Male partners do not need to be treated with antibiotics for BV.
E.Female partners should be tested/treated for BV.
Activity: As tolerated.
Diet: When taking the antibiotic metronidazole (Flagyl), you must avoid alcohol during the entire week you are taking the medicine and 24 hours after your last dose. The combination of the medicine and alcohol may cause nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, and a headache.
Medication:
You Have Been Prescribed: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Take: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Notify the Office If:
A.You vomited your medication (Flagyl).
B.Your vaginal odor and discharge are not relieved after the medications.
C.You continue to have repeated infections after following the instructions.
D.Other: ___________________________________________________________
Phone: ____________________________
PATIENT TEACHING GUIDE