Bacterial vaginosis is a common infection amongst women between the ages group 15-44 years. It is caused by a change in vaginal ph and an overgrowth of bacteria. The most common signs of bacterial vaginosis include irritation, discomfort, pain, burning sensation, white or gray vaginal discharge, etc.

The vagina has a natural balance of good and bad bacteria. An infection occurs when there is a change in the vaginal flora. A change in the vaginal ph can cause an outgrowth of bad bacteria and disrupt the vaginal balance.

Several factors that lead to a change in vaginal ph. are douching, vaginal deodorants, hormonal changes, scented tampons, etc.

Treatment of Bacterial Vaginosis

The most common treatment of bacterial vaginosis is a treatment with antibiotics. BV antibiotics are available only with the help of a prescription. However, in some cases, the infection may reoccur even after rounds of treatment with an antibiotic.

Some over the counter BV treatments can bring the desired results in the case of bacterial vaginosis. These medicines can also accelerate the treatment when taken along with antibiotics.

1. Boric acid

Boric acid is derived from the boron element, which is generally found in minerals. Boric acid has been used to treat bacterial vaginosis for more than 100 years.

It is a natural chemical that is used as a home remedy for vaginal infections. You can easily purchase boric acid suppositories over the counter from your local medical shop or online.

As per a 2009 study, patients who used boric acid along with antibiotics achieved better results in comparison to people who used only antibiotics. The study also states that boric acid removes bacterial mucus from the vagina. This may help in eliminating disease-causing micro-organisms. However, further research is needed for the adaption of Boric acid as a home remedy for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis.

Boric acid suppositories are considered a safe alternative to be used vaginally. However, they should not be consumed orally. If you have pets and kids at home, keep boric acid in a safe place away from their reach.

The recommended dose of this over-the-counter BV treatment is 600 mg per day for seven days. For severe infection, the duration can be extended up to fourteen days. You can also consult a doctor who can prescribe suitable doses based on your condition.

You can also make your boric acid suppositories at home. All you need to do is fill the size 0 gelatin capsules with 600 mg of boric acid to make your suppositories.

However, if you are pregnant, you should not use boric acid as an over-the-counter BV treatment method. Also, untreated bacterial vaginosis can cause severe complications for pregnant women like preterm delivery, miscarriage, low birth weight, and other complications. Hence, it is advisable to consult a doctor in such a case.

2. Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is another over-the-counter BV treatment that helps in eliminating symptoms of BV. As per a 2003 study, the use of hydrogen peroxide for a week can help in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis.

3. Probiotics

Probiotics are bacteria found in food such as yogurt. Also, there are several probiotic supplements available over the counter. They come in tablets and liquid form and can help in preventing bacterial vaginosis.

Probiotics can help restore good bacteria and balance the vaginal environment. The introduction of good bacteria helps in fighting bad bacteria. Hence, probiotics help in treating as well as preventing future occurrences of the infection.

Probiotics are also helpful when you are taking antibiotics for BV. Antibiotics can kill both good and bad bacteria. Hence, probiotics, along with antibiotics, can help in restoring balance.

These are some of the over-the-counter BV treatments. They can be a useful aid when taken along with an antibiotic. Also, they can be helpful for women with recurring infections.