Can You Get Rid of BV Without Antibiotics?

Maintain Healthy Vaginal pH

Maintaining a healthy vaginal pH is essential to preventing and treating BV. "BV occurs when there is an overgrowth of bacteria that is normally found in the vaginal canal," Hill says, "Alterations in the vaginal pH allow the normal bacteria to flourish."

Denniston concurs, adding that in addition to a proliferation of "multiple potentially pathogenic bacterial species," BV is also characterized by a decrease in "normal lactobacillus species," necessary in regulating vaginal flora. She notes that "healthy lactobacillus species decrease with intercourse without condoms, douching, lubricants, and antibiotics."

Hill adds that engaging in unprotected sex with a new sexual partner can also upset vaginal pH.

Refrain from Douching

To maintain healthy vaginal flora, you mustn't douche. Hill says, "Contrary to trending and/or seemingly helpful advertisements; you do not want to use feminine hygiene products to clean your vagina as these are known to disrupt the pH balance."

Denniston agrees that douching can upset the natural balance of "good" bacteria within the genital tract.

Wear Cotton Undergarments

Breathable fabrics are another must for keeping the vaginal microbiome in check. "Personal hygiene is crucial. In terms of proper undergarments, you want to wear breathable clothing, which includes cotton underwear, to maintain a dry environment," says Hill.

Treat with Intravaginal Boric Acid

Intravaginal boric acid is a handy over-the-counter remedy effectively used in balancing vaginal flora. "Boric acid, [used vaginally] is a white powder or crystalline solid that acts similarly to a Monistat or a prescription antifungal like fluconazole meant to treat yeast infections," says Hill, "Like antibiotics, boric acid is a strong antiviral and antifungal that lowers the vaginal pH and makes it more difficult for the bacteria that cause BV to grow...As a bonus, boric acid suppositories are both inexpensive and accessible."

pH-D Feminine Health Boric Acid Vaginal Suppositories $44.00

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Incorporate a Probiotic Into Your Diet

Unsurprisingly, when it comes to balancing vaginal pH, a probiotic is an essential part of the regimen. "I recommend taking an OTC refrigerated probiotic like Florajen Women," says Hill, "Refrigerated probiotics help restore and maintain the natural balance of vaginal flora as well as a healthy vaginal pH."

Hill adds that if antibiotics are prescribed to treat BV, adding a probiotic will help keep your system regulated. "Antibiotics aren’t very picky and don’t discriminate between good and bad bacteria. They kill both and can disturb your natural microbial balance… often with (very) unpleasant results like antibiotic-associated diarrhea," she explains. "Antibiotics should be used in conjunction with probiotics to help restore and support the natural balance of good bacteria." She suggests using two hours before your antibiotics on an empty stomach.

Denniston also recommends using probiotics to maintain vaginal pH. "Taking particular lactobacillus supplements, specifically, lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus reuteri  RC-14 can be really helpful."

In cases when antibiotics are prescribed to treat BV, Denniston reiterates that taking the aforementioned strains can help "replenish healthy flora and prevent recurrence of BV."

Florajen Women $22.00

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Get a Prescribed Lactobacillus Suppository

Probiotics don't only come in ingestible forms; they're available as suppositories as well. If you're experiencing recurrent vaginal infections, consider asking your physician to prescribe a lactobacillus suppository to meant to normalize the vaginal flora.

Consult an Expert to Balance Hormones

The relationship between hormones and vaginal flora is different for every individual and vital to overall health and wellness. Sometimes, these hormonal changes can disturb the vaginal microbiome. According to Denniston, "changes in the vaginal microflora can lead to BV and other infections." 

Your OBGYN or other experts in maintaining balanced hormones (like a naturopathic doctor) can help figure out little tweaks in diet and lifestyle to help your hormones sync up.

See a Physician

Sometimes, BV may go away using home remedies that effectively balance vaginal pH. However, both of our experts note that BV can also lead to much more serious issues if left untreated. Hill advises, "You should see a doctor if your symptoms don’t resolve with the probiotics within a few weeks. For many women, if you have never had BV before, it is best to see a physician to confirm the diagnosis."  The most commonly prescribed antibiotic to treat BV is metronidazole, according to Hill. It's important to continue the full course of antibiotics, even if your symptoms disappear or diminish sooner.

Denniston underscores the importance of medical care when it comes to vaginal infections. "If you suspect that you have BV or have symptoms of itching, irritation, odor, or discharge, it's important to get a proper diagnosis with your doctor." Self-diagnosis can be problematic with vaginal infections, especially because the risks associated without proper treatment can be serious. "If left untreated, BV can lead to serious complications such as infertility, other infections, chronic pelvic pain, and chronic pelvic inflammatory disease," explains Denniston.