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Treating thrush and bacterial vaginosis
yeast infection · thrush · bacterial vaginosis · vaginal discharge treatment · BV
This is treatment for common causes of itching and unusual discharge. The doctor takes a swab and chooses treatment.
For itching, burning, thick white or gray discharge, or a bad smell.
⏱ Duration: the visit usually takes 15 to 20 minutes; swab results are usually ready in 1 to 3 days
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Before the swab. For 1 to 2 days, do not douche or use vaginal suppositories unless your doctor prescribed them.
- Sex. Usually avoid sex for 1 to 2 days before the visit.
- Hygiene. The evening before, wash with warm water and no scented products.
What to bring
- Your ID
- A list of your medicines
- A pad
How it goes
- The doctor asks about your symptoms
- You lie on the exam chair
- The doctor looks inside with a speculum
- A swab is taken with a soft brush
- Treatment is prescribed: suppositories, cream, or tablets
- The doctor explains how and for how many days to use it
What you'll feel
- The swab is a little unpleasant but does not hurt
- Suppositories may cause mild burning
Afterwards
- Finish the whole course, even if you feel better
- You are usually advised to avoid sex during treatment
- Sometimes your partner is treated too. The doctor will tell you
- If it comes back, see the doctor again
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Pain low in your belly and a fever over 38°C
- Sores or blisters on the skin
- No improvement after treatment
Common questions
Can I treat thrush myself?
It is better to see a doctor first. Similar symptoms can have different causes, and the treatment is different.
Can my partner catch it?
Thrush and vaginosis are usually not considered sexually transmitted infections, but sometimes the partner is treated too.