Understanding the signs of recovery from bacterial vaginosis (BV) is crucial for anyone who has
experienced this common infection. BV occurs when there is an imbalance of bacteria in the
vagina, often resulting in a range of uncomfortable symptoms. While seeking proper treatment is
important, knowing when the infection has cleared can help you make more informed decisions.
In this blog, we’ll explain bacterial vaginosis and how you can recognize when the condition has
cleared.
Understanding the signs of recovery from bacterial vaginosis (BV) is crucial for anyone who has
experienced this common infection. BV occurs when there is an imbalance of bacteria in the
vagina, often resulting in a range of uncomfortable symptoms. While seeking proper treatment is
important, knowing when the infection has cleared can help you make more informed decisions.
In this blog, we’ll explain bacterial vaginosis and how you can recognize when the condition has
cleared.
Understanding Bacterial Vaginosis
Before recognizing the signs of its resolution, it’s essential to understand the nature of bacterial
vaginosis. BV is a type of vaginitis (inflammation of the vagina) that is caused by bacterial
overgrowth. This infection does not always exhibit noticeable symptoms, making diagnosis a
challenge without specific testing. In most cases, a provider will diagnose BV through a physical
examination, evaluation of symptoms, and PCR testing. The test requires a sample of vaginal
discharge that can be analyzed via molecular testing that identifies the strain of bacteria
present.
Common symptoms of bacterial vaginosis include:
- Inflammation
- Unusual discharge and odor
- Discomfort during intercourse
- Itching around the vagina
- General discomfort
BV Treatment and Recovery
Once properly diagnosed, your provider will typically make recommendations for treatment and
prescribe an antibiotic or other medication that the pathogen will respond to. It’s important to
complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms seem to resolve earlier.
Compliance with the prescribed treatment significantly increases the likelihood of successful
clearance of the infection and prevents the risk of recurrence. If your symptoms persist or
worsen after completing the treatment, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider. They can
reevaluate and suggest alternative treatments. To reduce the risk of BV recurrence, be sure to
maintain good vaginal health, avoid douching, and practice safe sex.
Signs of Bacterial Vaginosis Clearance
The most apparent sign that bacterial vaginosis has cleared is the disappearance of symptoms
altogether. Initially, symptoms like unusual discharge, odor, and irritation should diminish and
eventually fade away entirely. It’s important to note that improvement may not be instantaneous,
but will progressively occur over the course of treatment. Vaginal discharge is a natural
occurrence, but during BV, it becomes watery, grayish, or white with a strong, unpleasant odor.
As BV clears, the discharge should return to its usual color and consistency without an
abnormal smell.
Additionally, BV can cause itching, irritation, and discomfort in the vaginal area. As the infection
clears, these uncomfortable feelings should also gradually diminish until they fully disappear.
Some healthcare providers recommend a follow-up appointment or retesting to ensure the
infection has cleared. This test can confirm the absence of the bacteria or pathogens associated
with BV, giving further reassurance of successful treatment.
Get Testing with Precision Health in Denver, CO
Recognizing when bacterial vaginosis has cleared involves monitoring your symptoms and
seeking further guidance when necessary. Precision Health provides confidential testing
services to support your well-being seven days a week. If you’d like to know more about our
testing services, or would like to begin the initial conversation about BV, you can easily
schedule a telehealth consultation with one of our providers. Our lab does not require in-house
provider visits, which makes testing more convenient and affordable. If you have any additional
questions, please contact our medical team directly at (303) 418-2102.
