VAGINOSIS TREATMENTS

For some time BV has been treated successfully with metronidazole, an antibiotic in pill form. But the drug often causes gastrointestinal problems, which are more severe if you drink alcohol. An equally effective alternative, also taken as a pill, is clindamycin. Both antibiotics are now available as vaginal creams, a form in which they apparently don't have the side effects of the pill. But because clindamycin can damage latex products such as diaphragms and condoms, you should refrain from intercourse until you've finished the treatment if you use those methods of birth control.

If you are pregnant and have BV, discuss the best medication with your doctor. Although treatment usually begins in the second trimester, starting treatment in the first trimester is also accepted practice.