When to See a Doctor for BV: Signs you Shouldn’t Ignore
For many women, Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is something that can be easily managed with the right treatment. Sometimes, however, BV symptoms can be more complicated or point to a separate condition.
Knowing when to see a doctor is important for protecting your health, preventing recurrences, and ruling out other causes of vaginal infection. Here’s how to tell when it’s time to get checked.
When to See a Doctor for BV:
There are several situations where it’s important to get medical advice:
1. It’s your First Time Experiencing Symptoms
While there are some distinctive symptoms indicating a BV infection, it’s important not to rely on self-diagnosis if it’s your first time experiencing symptoms. Other infections – including thrush, trichomoniasis, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) – can cause similar symptoms.
Your doctor can take a simple swab to confirm what’s really going on and ensure you get the right treatment.
2. You’re Pregnant
If you’re pregnant and notice unusual discharge or odour, see your healthcare provider. Untreated BV during pregnancy can increase the risk of certain complications, such as premature birth or low birth weight.
3. You Have Pain, Bleeding, or Fever
BV doesn’t usually cause pain, bleeding or fever. If you’re experiencing pelvic pain, spotting between periods or any feverish symptoms, get checked promptly – these may be signs of a different infection, such as pelvic inflammatory disease.
4. Symptoms Keep Coming Back
Recurring BV is common – up to 50% of sufferers experience it again within 3-6 months. Persistent or frequent symptoms can be frustrating, but a doctor can help rule out other conditions and discuss options for longer-term management.
5. Over-the-Counter Treatment Hasn’t Worked
If your symptoms don’t improve within a few days of using an over-the-counter treatment, or they return soon after, it’s a good idea to check in with your GP or pharmacist. You may need a different approach, or there could be another cause altogether.
Why Getting Checked Matters
While BV can clear up easily with proper treatment, ignoring symptoms or repeatedly self-treating without confirmation can delay proper care.
Untreated BV may increase the risk of:
- Other vaginal infections or STIs
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Complications in pregnancy
Getting the right diagnosis ensures you receive the most effective treatment — and helps prevent BV from returning.
When It Might Be OK to Self-Treat
If you’re experiencing the typical BV symptoms — a fishy smell, thin grey-white discharge, and little or no itching — you can treat it yourself with an over-the-counter product like Fleurstat BV gel.
Fleurstat is a non-antibiotic treatment that works by disrupting BV-causing bacteria from the vaginal wall, helping to restore your natural balance. Ask your pharmacist if Fleurstat is right for you. Always read the instructions and use as directed.
If your symptoms seem different, severe, or keep coming back, it’s best to talk to your doctor.