BV Treatment Melbourne

Bacterial vaginosis is the most common cause of vaginal discharge in women of reproductive age, and it frequently recurs after treatment. According to the Australian STI Management Guidelines, the recommended first-line treatment is oral antibiotics twice daily for seven days. An alternative is intravaginal antibiotic gel or cream, which may be preferred by women who experience gastrointestinal side effects with oral antibiotics. Bv Treatment Melbourne is available by telehealth from our Specialist GP.

During treatment with certain antibiotics, alcohol must be avoided and for at least 24 hours after completing the course. Alcohol combined with certain antibiotics can cause severe nausea, vomiting, flushing, and headache. This is one of the most important counselling points your Specialist GP will discuss during your telehealth consultation.

BV recurrence is extremely common — up to 50 per cent of women experience recurrence within twelve months of initial treatment. This high recurrence rate is the most challenging aspect of BV management. If BV recurs, your GP may recommend extended or suppressive treatment courses. Some evidence supports the use of vaginal probiotics containing Lactobacillus species to help restore the normal vaginal microbiome, though this remains an area of active research.

Treatment of male sexual partners is not currently routinely recommended for BV in Australian guidelines, though this is evolving. Recent research suggests that concurrent partner treatment may reduce recurrence rates, and some clinicians now offer this approach. Your Specialist GP can discuss the latest evidence and whether partner treatment may be appropriate in your situation.

BV treatment is particularly important during pregnancy. Untreated BV is associated with increased risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and miscarriage. The recommended antibiotic treatment is safe in pregnancy and is the recommended treatment. If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy and have BV symptoms, prompt treatment is advised. A test of cure is not routinely needed after BV treatment unless symptoms persist, but retesting should be considered if symptoms recur.

All treatment consultations at Clinic365 are conducted by Specialist GPs with extensive experience in sexual health medicine. During your telehealth consultation, your GP will review your test results, confirm the diagnosis, explain the treatment plan, and answer any questions you have. Prescriptions are sent electronically to your nominated pharmacy and can usually be collected the same day. Your GP will also discuss partner notification, safe sex practices during treatment, and when to resume sexual activity.

Follow-up care is an important part of treatment. Depending on the infection, your GP may recommend a test of clearance after completing treatment to confirm the infection has resolved, as well as a repeat screen at three months to check for reinfection. Both follow-up tests can be ordered through Clinic365 for $39 online. If symptoms persist or recur after treatment, your GP is available for reassessment by telehealth. Early detection and prompt treatment remain the most effective way to protect your sexual health and prevent complications.

Telehealth is particularly effective for sexual health consultations because most conditions can be accurately diagnosed from test results and a clinical history alone — a physical examination is rarely needed. This means you can receive the same quality of care from the comfort and privacy of your own home, without needing to take time off work or sit in a waiting room. All Clinic365 telehealth consultations are conducted by Specialist GPs with an interest in sexual health, ensuring you receive expert care regardless of where you are in Australia.