Bacterial Vaginosis is an imbalance in the natural bacteria found in the vagina. When certain bacteria grow excessively, it disrupts the normal vaginal flora and causes symptoms such as discharge and odour.

BV is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but sexual activity can increase the risk of developing it. Many women experience BV more than once, making early treatment and prevention especially important.

Bacterial Vaginosis develops when there is an overgrowth of certain vaginal bacteria. Factors that may increase your risk include:

• New or multiple sexual partners
• Douching (cleaning the inside of the vagina with a liquid solution)
• Use of perfumed soaps, washes or vaginal deodorants
• Smoking
• Recent changes in contraception
• Natural hormone fluctuations
  
  

Understanding your triggers can help prevent recurring BV.

Common BV symptoms include:

• Thin watery or grey/white vaginal discharge
• Strong, fishy vaginal odour (often worsens after sex)
• Mild discomfort or irritation
• Itching around the vaginal area
• Burning sensation during urination

Antibiotics are used to treat BV, with options including oral tablets, gels or vaginal creams. While some cases may resolve on their own, treatment is recommended for symptomatic infections.

If left untreated, bacterial vaginosis could lead to more severe complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, an increased risk of contacting STIs, or even pregnancy complications such as preterm labor or infection of the fetal membrane.

Zidoval Gel

Zidoval is a trusted prescription-only vaginal gel used to treat bacterial vaginosis infections. The active ingredient in Zidoval is metronidazole. Metronidazole is an antibiotic that works by inhibiting the growth and reproduction of bacteria. Applied inside the vagina, it helps restore the natural bacterial balance and eliminate the infection with minimal side effects.

A box of Zidoval contains a tube of metronidazole gel and 5 single-use applicators. Each dose consists of an applicator filled with 5g of the Zidoval gel and should be used once daily and at the same time each day for 5 days in a row.

Even if symptoms clear up, the full course of the metronidazole vaginal gel must be completed to aid full clearance of the infection and prevent reinfection.

• Must be used exactly as prescribed 
• Do not use if allergic to metronidazole
• Consult your doctor before use if pregnant or breastfeeding
• Consult your doctor before use if you have vaginal thrush or any other medical conditions
• For vaginal use only. Do not use any other way

• Vaginal discharge
• Vaginal or vulval irritation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Pelvic discomfort
• Stomach upset or pain
• Yeast infection
• Weakness or dizziness
• Loss of appetite, dark urine and jaundice
• Anaphylaxis (allergic reaction)

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of the side effects of Zidoval gel. Contact your doctor and seek medical help if any of these effects or more occur.

If you’re experiencing BV symptoms or have had recurring episodes, our pharmacy team is here to help. Book your BV consultation today for fast, confidential, and effective treatment.

Start your consultation now and feel like yourself again.