The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Acidophilus
Posted by Michelle (Butler, PA) on 10/09/2008
★★★★☆
I have had BV for about a year now and have been treated with mostly flagyl cream. The symptoms go away but come back again as soon as I finish the treatment. I've been given flagyl oral as well which can really make you sick; headaches and everything, plus don't drink on it it is suppose to really make you sick. I've also been prescribed ciproloxin, which I tolerated well. I've been taking the acidophilus 14 billion live cells, called PB8 for about 2 months now with no help. I added the folic acid. I think what really helped were the hydrogen peroxide douches.
I read that if you have pelvic inflammatory disease you have to be treated 2 weeks with oral antibiotics and your partner also and have a 4 - 6 wk. check up. Also, you may not have symptoms any more than the ones we're getting with BV. I think the reason this bear keeps reoccuring is because I have PID. Untreated BV can turn into PID.
Also, no one mentions cultures here that I've read. I was cultured by gyn. and had two infections; one staph and the other bacterial vaginosis. The second is treated with flagyl but the first is treated with ciprofloxin. My gyn. never gave me cipro. just the flagyl, so I think that's part of the reason why it keeps coming back.
I will see how I do, I am finished with the cipro and have douched for about 4 days now. I will let you know how I respond.
Does anyone else think these are reocurring because it has progressed up the vaginal canal to the uterus? or PID. If I don't resolve this this time that is what I will suggest to my dr. Plus, I have not had sex to aggrevate anything in about 7 months.
I've been using wipes drenched in peroxide, spraying peroxide down there, stopped using scented soap, no tampons during menstruation, and hope I got it this time. I've even put the antibiotics up there and the 14 billion live bacteria alternating with the douching. I'm actually doing well now, no symptoms, but time will tell. Will write again in a week, my name is MK.
Acidophilus
Posted by Michelle (Butler, PA) on 10/31/2008
I wanted to get back to this site and let them know how I fared. All went well until my period. I would suggest not using tampons until you're really sure its gone. The date is now 10/31/08 and the symptoms have been back for about a week now. I've been douching with the hydrogen peroxide but its getting worse. I finally called my dr. and she ordered me more flagyl. I've run out of my acidophilus, and ran out of hydro. perox. too. I just got some more yesterday. I think letting the liquid sit in you for 3 minutes or so at a time or putting a tampon up there and drenching it with the solution would be good. Also I found relief when I put the acidophilus pills into the douch water. I used PB8, which has 14 billion live bacteria cells in it. Will respond back after my next period and let you know how it goes. Michelle
Acidophilus
Posted by Mz Sick and Tired (Columbus, OH) on 11/05/2008
You know I really think douching makes it worse, no matter what you're douching with. The hydrogen peroxide only works temp. after two to three days the discharge is back and thicker then ever. And honeslty I do feel that the more you douche the further it pushes it up in your vaginal canal. So how long do you feel the need to douche knowing that. Secondly, I only douche right after I forgot to take my Folic and Acidphilus pills, to give me a fresh start then, I will continue to medicate with the vitamins. Even with the vitamins I have a white discharge but no ordor. Sometime you have to think is the douche really working, for bacteria grows in the blood stream thats why there are antiobotics for this. If this was a viral type of infection vs. bacteria then the hydrogen peroxide would kill it and it would be done. Instead you have to keep douching every other day and take vitamins everyday to keep the smell away. So with that said are we just eliminating the smell only. I know that is good enough for many women who have been suffering with stinky papayas. So please give me your feed back and let me know if there are truly long term or perminate results.
Acidophilus
Posted by Lesley Quinton (Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, England) on 06/18/2009
I have been suffering from BV for about a year now, a whilst i have not tried as many things as a lot of you ladies have ( im not one for conventional medicines and prefer to home medicate) I do feel at the end of the line, I guess I am lucky as I do not suffer from the smell that bv can produce but i do have a lot of dicharge, which as you are aware can be very depressing. i have tried ___ and orally taken acidophilus, i am yet to try boric acid, but i am going to try acidophilus viginally, this evening .... i'll keep you posted - good luck to all who are trying different things, this bv really is bloody awful.
Acidophilus
Posted by keisha kimble (brooklyn, ny) on 09/14/2008
★★★★★
for the past two years i been suffering from BV when i first was diagnosed with it i was fortunate enough to say that the medication really worked my BV actually went away for a year and a half unfortunately i started using a product that triggered it again and it came back. this time i wasnt as fortunate because nothing seemed to work for it. i tried the medication and different antibiotics and nothing worked. Anyone that suffer from this terrible thing called BV knows how much strain it puts on your life emotionally and physically.just thinking about it almost made me wanna cry daily. i couldnt enjoy sex and was to embarrassed to even let my boyfriend touch me.i dont know why but i said to myself oneday it just gotta be a home rememdy i wasnt expecting something that would cure it but just something that will relieve me from this god awful smell lol. while on the computer one day i simply typed in home cures for BV and thats when earth clinic popped up i saw the link that said folic acid and acidophilus and i clicked on it at first i wasnt convinced until i started reading the stories of other woman. that night i could barely sleep i couldnt wait for the pharmacy to open in the morning. i went to get the folic acid and the acidophilus but the pharmacy didnt have any folic acid so i just got the acidophilus i couldnt find the tablet so i got the capsules. i took one capsule 10mg 100 million active lactobacilllus. since i had capsules instead of tablets i couldnt insert it so i opened the capsule and poured the powder into my hand and inserted it into my vagina. as soon as i put the powder inside i noticed a difference but it wasnt until the next morning that i realized i had absolutely no discharge,no smell,and no itch i was so happy i wanted to cry. the next day instead of washing with soap i opened a capsule and poured it on my washcloth with nothing but water, i then did the same thing i did the previous day. a whole day went by and still no smell. By the next day my period had started i didnt wanna stop my regimen so i continued doing the same things i was doing before it came. usually when my period come the odor is very strong i could honestly say i havent had any unpleasant smells and i am now two days into my cycle. when it goes off im going to take a douche bottle fill it up with water and open two capsules and use it instead of peroxide i think that would have a more lasting effect. i wanna thank whoever posted this rememdy it truly changed my life for all yall out there thats looking for some relief from BV i wish you the best hopefully it work out for you the same way it did for me.
Acidophilus
Posted by Terry (Savannah, Georgia) on 08/06/2008
★☆☆☆☆
I have been suffering from this god awful thing(BV) for about 2 years now and as the rest of you have stated none of the so called cures from doctors work. I have been taking acidophilus for about 2 years also, it does not work by itself. I just bought the folic acid, wish me luck. I have read where some of you ladies are douching... Let me remind you that you are washing out the bacteria that is needed in your vagina... STOP DOUCHING!!! It is not healthy, i don't care what you're douching with, STOP!!!!!
Acidophilus
Posted by Jennifer (Dover, DE) on 09/25/2007
★★★★★
I have never delt with a ongoing anything in that area before so the symptoms Im feeling are a bit alarming, since I have been to the Dr. office 3 times in the last 7 weeks with little to no change in the burning, swelling, itching and painful intercourse. I tried the OTC generic 1-day monistate and was left with a pain and swelling that almost drove me to the ER. I had taken the oral yeast infection pill along with a cream the DR gave me... Had a pap a few weeks later and I was still having "flare" ups. Went back to the DR a week ago to be handed triple paste (zinc oxide) and another yeast cream...through all this things would start to feel as about normal as I can remeber since this all started and then I would wake up and the swelling and itching would be back and the redness, Sigh* So after several attempts this morning to reach another DR to get yet again another would be failed attemp at clearing this problem up I found this site. I thankfully already have the Folic Acid pills (800mcg) and the Acidophilus...I took the pill just before writing this and I do plan on inserting the Acidophilus tonight...Im not sure if I have a misdiagnosed BVI (I have no fishy odor) but after everything else it seems to be the only thing left that makes sense. I have to say that as horriable as it is that our own educated DRs have a hard time helping or even diagnosing many of the womens issues out there, that as women we can find a commen place to share our story and help one another out. If I have good news pertaining to the pills I have just started then I will be posting again to share :)
Acidophilus
Posted by Lyra (winston salem, NC) on 09/24/2007
★★★★★
For a long long time, a couple of years i guess, i have battled with BV on and off. The last time it was bad, it lasted for about 7 months and just got worse and worse. It was so embarrassing, i didn't want to have anything to do with my partner sexually. i couldn't enjoy it because i was just so embarrassed. It was ruining our relationship. i thought it was a yeast infection all the time but i took medicine and it never went away. Then i looked online and saw BV and read about it. i just happened to come across a website that said to insert acidophilus pill into ur vagina, and also to try inserting plain yogurt once a week always to maintain healthy balance if you are sensitive to getting BV. So i tried the acidophilus before i went to bed, the next morning my symptoms were almost gone, so the next night i did the yogurt, and that was it. i was cured...all this time of going through everything, and it was that easy. But regretfully i didn't do the once a week thing. SO then 7 months later, i got it again, i think from taking too many baths with a lot of soap and stuff. So this time, i did the acidophilus pill, but when i inserted it, i also put plain yogurt on it, the next day i woke up and it was gone. Its amazing. i just can't believe it works that well. But im happy. i would recommend that to everyone. Just make sure that when you buy the acidophilus MAKE SURE that it is NOT in capsule form, make sure it is a plain regular pill that will dissolve, because i used a capsule and it did not dissolve, just got really sticky and it was really bad. Anyways, i hope that everyone here can get rid of this terrible thing. Good luck.
Acidophilus
Posted by Qwerty7586 (United Kingdom) on 11/23/2013
I've sufferred from BV for about 5 years now but only started looking into treatments just recently. I'm 19 and I am not sexually active (never had sex) but got bv from irritation from soaps/shower jels. Drs wont help me as they pretend like there's nothing wrong with me so I'm trying to fix this myself. I've bought acidophilus tablets for digestive health but it says "take 1 tablet a day". I don't think it's working much as I've been taking them for a week now. Is it because I'm taking them orally? Should I put them in vaginally? Or do you need special tablets for the vagina? I dont really want to stick anything up there as I can barely fit anything in! I'm also taking multivitamins and tried the apple cider vinegar bath. I dont even know if the apple cider worked as I cant really smell the odour myself most of the time! Only other people can. Please could someone answer my questions as I am feeling a little lost at the moment. Should I try the hydrogen peroxide douche too? I'm a little scared to try douches!
Acidophilus
Posted by Mmsg (Somewhere, Europe) on 11/23/2013
Qwerty, why don't you try a diluted h202 sitz bath?
Acidophilus
Posted by Rsw (Uniontown, Oh) on 11/23/2013
Qwerty,
If you google "PH balanced soap" there is a yellow soap in a blue package that comes up. It matches your body's natural PH, and using it may give you the relief you want. Best wishes.
Acidophilus
Posted by Sindee (Santa Cruz, Ca) on 12/15/2013
After bath/shower apply extra virgin coconut oil (just lightly) and use a panty liner for an hour to avoid staining underwear. EVCO is the best natural skin/body moisturizer that has been used for centuries in East India/Asia. I have used it all my life now (have very sensitive skin), it is now becoming popular in the US.
Acidophilus
Posted by Reb (Wichita, Ks) on 12/31/2013
I've had BV for as long as I've been sexually active, and I'm 45 now, so I've had plenty of time to figure out solutions.
Diet and all that doesn't make a difference for me. The only thing that works is douching with peroxide, I use a plastic syringe, the kind they'll give you free at any pharmacy counter for giving kids medicine, and inserting acidophilus afterwards. You can do it twice a day, and up to three days for a really tough bout, but usually once or twice does it.
I do it every time I have sex and after every period.
I really like Ja-----dophilus, they're small, dissolve quickly without a mess and seem to be the perfect strains, but it's also the most expensive one at the health food store so if I can't afford that one I just buy one with a lot of strains.
Always make sure it's NOT enteric coated, those capsules don't dissolve. If for some reason your capsules aren't dissolving well, take the top of the capsule off before inserting so you only have to fish around for one piece later.
I am planning to try folic acid. I've read a lot about it and preventing it would be better than treating it, if that's possible.
Acidophilus
Posted by Maria (Miami, Fl) on 07/11/2013
Hello, can you please tell me which probiotic formula you used? brand? price? I am so desperate...
Acidophilus
Posted by Brendam (Denver, Co) on 02/07/2014
Are you taking the probiotics vaginally or orally? Has anyone tried garlic pill made to help with candida?
I'm on 15 months of having it since dating with my current male partner. Could we be giving it to each other back and forth. Has anyone tried having their male partner treated with anything? Also, my doctor has said sex is ok while treating it but the recent homopathic medicine I bought for BV that is inserted vaginally stated to avoid having sex while using the 6 day formula.
All thoughts and advise are welcome!
Acidophilus
Posted by Nanowriter (Hotspot, Texas) on 02/07/2014
Try having your partner take zinc supplements. There are vitamins and minerals in human secretions and sperm are supposed to contain a lot of zinc. It's worth a try.
Acidophilus
Posted by Bee (New York) on 03/11/2014
Hi, good to hear that lemons are helping you.. I am starting to think lemons are my best friend.. I have been experimenting with all kinds of lemons.. I also drink two or three lemons in water a day for Vit.C and to lower my blood pressure.. I also need vit.C and yes taking a bunch of pills gets pricey and this is a great way to go... I also have digestive problems and hoping the lemons work there also....I have also tried lemon essential oils and they help me relax.......
Only thing is that I use organic but they are not so expensive either..when I get them in bulk... Thank You
Acidophilus
Posted by Caligirl (Bakersfield, Ca) on 03/19/2014
I have taken the vitamin c packs with 1000 mg and notice those are somewhat helpful too. They didn't work as well as the lemons though. Something about the lemons really seems to work.
Acidophilus
Posted by Linda (Florida) on 02/24/2015
Drinking lemon juice in water balances your body's PH levels and I think bad bacteria do not like a balanced PH level environment. So the Lemon is probably helping to kill the Bacterial Vaginosis and at the same time it helps the good bacteria thrive. I used a 30/70 douche of water/hydrogen peroxide( 30% hydrogen peroxide and 70% distiller water) for 7 days every nite before bed. At first I was relieved it worked but now at 6 weeks later, I think it killed off ALL the good bacteria and the bad bacteria have taken over completly! now the BV is worse than ever. Going to insert an OTC and pray it helps. incidentally, I'm 50, two years into menopause and a juvenile diabetic (40 years). Maybe using a lemon juice douche would work?
Acidophilus
Posted by A96 (London) on 12/28/2016
What were the strains in the probiotics you used?
Acidophilus
Posted by Beehive (London, England) on 04/09/2013
I hope this post will help some women. I never ever suffered with bv ever in my life. I didnt even know such a thing existed. I met a new man, we got intimate and suddenly I had this disgusting odour. The strange thing was that regardless of whether he used a condom or not I still got the infection. Note that when he used a condom the infection would take longer to develop. When a condom was not used the infection would develop the following day. A smelly discharge and an extremely dry vagina. Eventually I cleared the infection and was able to keep it away.
After having sex, the very next day I would insert 5 acidophilus capsules in my vagina as far as they would go. I did not poke holes in the capsules. The uncomfortable dry feeling would disappear within a few minutes. The day after I would insert 3 capsules. The third day after I would insert one capsule. I also started eating a lot of live full fat greek yogurt during the rest of the time. My vagina actually started smelling good enough to eat ;) One thing I did notice about my boyfriend's semen was that it was extremely thick and sticky and did not "leak" out of my body. It seemed to stay in my body and start rotting in there. Anyway, I split up with him and met someone new. I was a little afraid that I might suffer in the same way with my new man. His semen was not overly thick and sticky and leaked out of my body after we had sex. I did not get bv again. I was so relieved that the cause of the bv did not lie with me. Anyway, my old boyfriend got married and I think his wife is getting the same problem as I was when I was with him. She has accused him of cheating on her and they are now separated after only being married 8 months. My old boyfriend is a body builder and drinks alot of those protein drinks but does not drink water or eat fruit and vegetables. So the problem definitely lies with him. Note that I did get the infection even when we used a condom. I have put this down to the fact that the sex was rougher when a condom was used so I may have been getting injured internally which meant an infection could take hold. To summarise, eat plenty of LIVE yogurt. Insert about 5 acidophilus capsules as soon as possible after having sex. This means that the good bacteria will not allow the bad bacteria to take hold. Also note that the good bacteria keeping the vagina fresh by producing hydrogen peroxide so there is no need for you to douche with hydrogen peroxide.
Acidophilus
Posted by Sunny (Ca) on 11/09/2013
Hey Caligirl from Bakersfield Ca,
Can I get more clues on which one you used like what it rymes with or how many stains, was it refigerated kind? What colors are the box? What kind of pictures?? the more clues the better. Thank you!!!
Acidophilus
Posted by Caligirl (Bakersfield) on 12/08/2013
It was refrigerated. We lost our income recently so I went off them briefly and the odor came back! Guess I am really going to have to stay on these to keep things under control but its worth it! I tried a cheaper brand with 50 billion active cultures but it had more strains and it seems to work well too. I think maybe brand isn't as important as getting a high dose one and then taking more of them. I take two in the morning and two at night and sometimes an extra one in the day.
Acidophilus
Posted by Samara (India) on 05/02/2017
Hi, I've had BV since I was 22 and now I'm already 27. Its actually a tough battle, Almost all the DIY treatments are not effective to me.I tried doing the half and half hydrogen peroxide and water douche, the tampon with yogurt or dipped with hydrogen peroxide, I tried inserting vit.c for 6 days, I tried changing my diet for a years and nothing has ever worked for me. Im taking acidophilus for almost a year as well with B-complex and folic acid but then again it didnt work! Now, Im curious aout the acidophilus inserted vaginally. May I know how do you do it? I mean do you take the powder out from the capsules bec I tried putting it on syringe with water, more like of a paste but theres a starch like thing well, more like of and texture that doesn't dissolve on water, now Im wondering if it will dissolve on the vagina. Hope youll respond! Thanks!
Acidophilus
Posted by Jessica (Houston, Tx) on 05/16/2012
hey guys. Im glad I found this post... This is probably the best site ive seen about bv. I recently started having this problem because im on the depo shot, so I wont get pregnant, so my bf doesnt pull out... I didnt know I could get bv because of that. It makes sense, because that is not very sanitary.. So now im suffering from bv every once in a while. I usualy have it for a few days, then it goes away from a month, then it come back. Today I bought a $10 acidiphilis & liquid b12 that the guy there recommended. Hopefully this works.. But I also bought 3% peroxide.. But im not sure how to use it.. :( do I just mix it with 1/2 water& rinse down there? or do I have to use a syringe?
Acidophilus
Posted by Stephanie (Dallas, Tx) on 04/19/2012
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you for all the information.... I've been struggling with BV for years now and is tried of going to the doctor once or twice a month for the same medication. After reading through multiple stories I'm going to try using Folic Acid and Acidophilus. I wasn't sure what to purchase so I purchase two bottles of Acidophilus one in the capsules and one in the caplets. I want to try to insert acidophilus but not sure if I should insert the capsules or caplets. Would someone let me know the difference or does it matter. For now I'm just going to orally take the folic acid and acidophilus pills. Thanks again ladies.
Acidophilus
Posted by Bridget (Montevallo, Al) on 02/28/2012
Hi ladies! I've been dealing with BV for almost ten months now, and I'm really ready to get rid of it. I've been taking garlic pills and acidophilus pills twice a day after meals, but I really would like to try the "acidophilus paste" that some of you have recommended. I've tried it twice, but I think I might be using too much water, because it doesn't look anything like a paste. I mash up the pill in a bowl, add water, mix it, and do my best to get the mixture into one of those vaginal-insert things that often come with antibiotics (after it's been thoroughly washed with soap and warm water). Is there a more efficient way of doing this? Should I be buying distilled water just for this purpose?
I also have tried tea tree oil after reading some of the replies on this website, and it truly only caused me to have a horrible burning sensation. How do you ladies use the tea tree oil? Maybe I didn't dilute it enough. I would appreciate some more details on either of these methods!
Acidophilus
Posted by Marina (Grants Pass, Oregon) on 03/02/2012
@02/28/2012: Bridget from Montevallo, Al You could try mixing the acidophilus with plain yogurt for a thicker paste - otherwise you would need only a drop of water to make a paste. I sterilize a long pin & poke several holes in an acidophilus capsule and just insert the capsule by way of lubing my finger with coconut oil & working it up as high as I can go. This has been working along with my other methods (all my notes are under the remedy with 99 YEAs below & I am 'better but not cured' - but I AM GAINING ON IT).Undiluted Tea Tree Oil is too strong for many people - dilute it/mix it with something like Grapeseed Oil, Almond Oil, Olive Oil: carrier oils which also have healing properties).
Acidophilus
Posted by Cecilia (Dallas, United States) on 03/28/2012
I've had BV for almost a year now. I immediately stopped using fragranced soaps down there, but the problem was still there. In case you ladies didn't knw, you should always stay away from scented soaps, wipes, pads, etc. Down there, because it is a big cause of BV! Most of you probably knew that already, but I know all my friends were surprised to hear that, since they use scented pads all the time. Anyway, I do not know how I got BV, but it was really making me uncomfortable, and I was being distant with my boyfriend.
The other day, I saw an intimate feminine wash in my mother's shower and read that it was completely natural with no added fragrance. It contains cranberry extract and chamomile. Cranberry is very good for the overall health of your vagina and bladder, so I figured I'd give it a try. I used it for two days and didn't even bother to check if my BV had improved. I was so used to being icky down there and having to wear pads every single day so the odor wouldn't stink up my pants. My boyfriend knew about the infection, but I never let him smell me anywhere near there, so he got my shorts that I had been wearing and smelled the crotch area lol and he was confused because it didn't smell like anything. I took the shorts from him, and to my surprise, there was no smell. For the first time in months! The next day, I got my period, and we all know we can be a bit smelly down there during our period, and combined with the BV, the smell used to be horrible. Again to my surprise, there was no smell! My period even seemed to smell so much less than before I got the BV. That day, I went out and bought some L. Acidophilus pills with 40 million viable cells just to ensure that the infection wouldn't come back. I'm still trying not to get my hopes up, but the smell and discharge still haven't made an appearance again, and it's been five days. Once my period is over, I'm going to try to wear my underwear without any panty liners or pads, and that will be the ultimate test. I hope it goes well. I'm going to continue washing that area with the feminine wash and taking the Acidophilus pills. I don't know if either of those things actually were the cause of my BV disappearing, but the pills have improved my metabolism a lot, so that's a plus. Hopefully, it doesn't come back.
Acidophilus
Posted by Zerbo's Health (Livonia, Mi ) on 04/04/2012
I visited this section on BV a few weeks ago and then went to the Health Food Store in this area best known for its selection. The staff there introduced me to a suppository that had everything everyone was talking about. These are by Vitanica. These suppositories have acidophilus, tea tree, boric acid, and coconut oil in them. I've been using them for 1 week and no more BV. They say for yeast but if you read everything about acidophilus, tea tree, coconut oil, and boric acid then you will understand that these will take care of fungus and bacteria also. I also decided to take Soloray Yeast Cleanse because it includes pau d archo, tea tree, caprilic acid, acidophilus, and more for cleansing out the bacteria also. This all took care of the issue in 1 week for under $30. Thought I would share a very easy and comprehensive formula that is effective since many have had no luck. Best in Health. S in Michigan.
Acidophilus
Posted by Sherri (Brooklyn, Ny) on 04/06/2012
@ Zebro what health food store did u go to? I see Whole foods carries Vitanica products But I do not know about the suppositories, I'm desperate to try anything, I already spent a extra 50 dollars this week on nothing, damn something has got to work for us as it has you!!! Thx for sharing..
Acidophilus
Posted by Marina (Grants Pass, Or) on 04/07/2012
It's called yeast arrest.
Acidophilus
Posted by Marina (Grants Pass, Or) on 04/07/2012
Hey Sherri - - I just checked, nothing there? Tori Hudson a wonderful ND in Portland designs the product line. When I got serious about this I followed her work. The FDA made them lower the boric acid content of this product a few years back. There are many complaints regarding the loss of potency due to this requirement. It's too bad. I based my original capsules with Tori's remedy in mind.
It seems like a lifetime - but I have been free and clear for at least 6 weeks! AMAZING.
Acidophilus
Posted by Sherri (Brooklyn, Ny) on 04/09/2012
Hey Marina, wow 6 weeks!!! I know u r feeling really good, just one day would be a lifetime for me as I sit here typing this I can smell it through my pants:(( Oh man I just finished crying, I can not wait to go back to the doctor, I do not know why my body is being so damn stubborn to fight off this dreadful infection, I rarely talk to my guy anymore, like I said before he has no idea what Im going through and if he knew he would be gone, so it is best like this until I can be rid of this crap, marina are u still doing your regimine everyday? So u have no discharge and smell? wow u r so very lucky, 8 years with this and I still can not believe it, I just saw a brochure in the doctoors office " BV what women should know" well there should have been more awareness about this wayyyyyy before, because I would have taken the damn precautions to avoid this nightmare, I douched and BV got me, seems like it has my whole damn life, my esteem is shot, I want to smile again, such a beautiful face and a stinky vagina, no man wants that at all, this is the worst shit ever, I wish and hope to be BV free soon, I need my life back, damn, and I want my guy too, that guy is my soulmate.
Acidophilus
Posted by Margaret (Cooktown, Queensland, Australia) on 04/20/2012
Hi out there, thanks for your stories. BV has become a problem for me over the last 2 years, didn't have any understanding of it to begin, and because ejaculating with intercourse was something that started full on for me at around the same time, I thought the odour came from this. Didn't realise how powerfully bad it was until others started to object to the smell. I also developed urinary tract infections that I'd never before had. I'm also heading into menopause, and a womens health nurse here was able to point out that link. Anyway, I 'd tried ti tree and vinegar douches to no avail. So went to an antibiotic, Tinidazole 500mg x 4, a once only dose, and it worked, made me happy. Until I had sex again, and back it came. There's a doctor in town here who's very much into the nutritional side of things, the effects of deficiencies, getting the balance right, etcetera, so I'm thinking to make that my next port of call in looking for a cause and cure. An iridologist was able to pick up that I had a chronic infection, which she felt was originally housed in the gut, so that's another angle. If I come across something that makes a lasting difference, will surely let you know.
Acidophilus
Posted by Trina (Charlotte, Nc) on 05/02/2012
I was having BV and the clinic would prescribe me metronidazole and it kept coming back. I finally went to my family doctor and he prescribed me the same medince however he prescibed me Restora (myrestora. Com) to take along with the metronodazole, I continued to take 1 Restora everyday after the 7 day run with antibiotics. It's been over a year and it hasnt came back yet. I would recommend giving this a shot. It worked for me.
Acidophilus
Posted by Nikki1983 (Birmingham, Al) on 05/17/2012
Hello everyone. I to am enjoying the information that I've been reading on this site. I just heard about BV on the television. I've been researching for about 2 hours and noticed that I've been having some of the same symptoms. The only thing is, is that I haven't been having any pain at all. Fishy smell and grayish spots in the panty liners. I've been with my fiance for 8 years and he's been my only sex partner since then. Constantly taking showers, wiping, and changing panty liner. Using different cream for yeast infection. My appointment is scheduled for Tuesday of next week. Could that be a sign of BV?
Acidophilus
Posted by Lakeha (Birmingham, Alabama) on 07/12/2012
Its good to see that I am not the only lady going through this problem but I havent tried many things besides metronidazole and vh essentials bv treatment it is 6 pills inserted vaginally and you can buy it at a drugstore or walmart for 20.00. Kinda expensive but it works for awhile. I dont think that this is easy to get rid of so the best thing we can do is continue to do what works best for our body....
Acidophilus
Posted by Confusedintexas (Sherman, Tx) on 08/28/2012
hey its me again. Still dealing with the same symptoms and discharge, I just turned 20 yesterday and am feeling like im always going to be like this. I know that isnt true, but its like im always looking over my shoulder, waiting for the big scary bv or yeast infection monster to come get me.
i know i've fallen off my bandwagon with my vitamins and stuff but tonight I think I got a sign not to give up. I can't enjoy sex, and am officially single, so frustrated with the itching, burning, and terrible effect these infections are causing in my life AND vag. I cracked open an L. Acidophilus capsule I had (100 million count), poured it on my finger, then swirled it around up there a little bit.
at first I was doubting that it was even going to do anything, especially cause I was too chicken to put the whole thing up there and prbly used about half of it but I really do feel better. the itching and annoying dry feeling isnt as bad but the insanely annoying burning is gone.
I'm going to keep inserting the capsules, slowing working my way up to more. i've learned in my case that less is more after getting a UTI soaking in AVC :'(
so starting tomorrow im going to go back to taking my vitamins and folic acid cause when I was taking them I got a pap smear from my gyno and my yeast levels were low, she said there was almost any yeast down there which was good (i think).
maybe I should've tried the suppository thing a long time ago..... I guess i'll see in a couple of weeks. ill let you guys know.
nice talking with you guys and reading up on the new information, this site really does keep me from going totally insane LOL
Acidophilus
Posted by Sherri (New York, Ny) on 11/21/2012
This is Sherri, my BV went away, How? I dunno, yes I changed my diet, drink apple cider with water everyday, just take a zinc vitamin, nothing esle, I went to my gyn again for a check up, no smell and Ph is 4. 4 where it should be, no higher, no clue cells present and lactobacillus is present, there is normal discharge, Im so happy for this, like I have my life back, I smell perfume, u see I have written many times here, of depression and crying and I dunno something worked for me, it has to be diet and no I do not eat yougurt , that does not work ladies because the right strain of lactobacillus is not in there, my pants smell like nothing and neither do my panties, try drinking apple cider, the vagina needs to get acidic, Good Luck, finally after 8 years!!! FREE at LAST!!!!
Acidophilus
Posted by Dyann (Dallas, Tx) on 11/22/2012
Sherri, that's awesome news! In what ways did you change your diet? Besides the apple cider & zinc, I mean?
Acidophilus
Posted by Sherri (Ny) on 11/27/2012
@Dyann lots of fruits and vegetables and apple cider with water, yeah I can not believe it is gone, some discharge but all normal!!! And take a probiotic with Reuteri in it, they sell it in the vitamin Shoppe, or on Amazon for like 9 dollars!!! No more BV, ugh GOOD, no more fish smell, it has beeen such a long time, of humiliation and embarassment, so I feel all your pain, diet has so much to do with this creature, and u must stya with a probiotic... Good Luck to being FREE!!
Acidophilus
Posted by Dyann (Dallad, Tx) on 11/29/2012
@Sherri, I started drinking apple cider vinegar every day & have added some veggies to my diet, but I will definitely have to try the probiotic as well! Thanks!! And congrats!! :-)
Acidophilus
Posted by Sweet Tee (Laurel, Maryland) on 01/03/2013
1/3/2013: Sweet Tee from Laurel MD replies: I have been suffering with BV for many years now and so has many women in my family, so I decided not to feel so bad anymore and really try and do something about this Naturally, so here is what seems to work for me: First 7 days I took Yeast cleansers after this, I douched with GSE (Grapefruit Seed Extract) and distilled water for 7 days (1 &half teaspoon of GSE for every 16 ounces of water - should make 3 douches each time). I went to the store and brought a multi pack of premixed douches, open them, dumped out the contents and wash it out with hot water, then added my douche mixtures. Now I douche with the GSE mixture 1 a week and everything seems fine. My partner even said I smell like "water" down there. My period is starting and it's not as intense as usual or as smelly. I have to say that this 14 day remedy is comprehensive but well worth the effort and to douche 1 a week with my mixture is just a safeguard. Good luck and May the Force Be with You!!!
Acidophilus
Posted by Healthyh (Austin, Texas, Usa) on 07/09/2013
Does anyone else have an issue with bleeding in between periods? Could this be a product of the BV or is there something more serious that it could be tied to? I've always had issues with spotting in between periods and it's very distressing.
Acidophilus
Posted by Mama To Many (Middle, Tennessee, Usa) on 07/10/2013
Dear Healthyh, I don't think the BV is causing the spotting. I wouldn't rule out 100% that they are related if some underlying health problem contributes to them both, but I don't think BV is the cause.
I have had spotting before and do not have BV. Spotting is usually cause by something hormonal. It can be cause by a number of birth control methods.
The easiest thing to try would be 1 T. blackstrap molasses 1-2 times a day. This is very good for lots of female (and other) problems. Red Raspberry Leaf tea - 3 cups a day is also helpful for the female system. If nothing simple works, you could look in to natural progesterone cream, but I am not sure that is all that natural. That said, I have used it to get myself regular in the past with success.
If you cannot get your spotting under control, you may want to see an OB. Sometimes it can be an indication of a more serious problem. One time I had spotting that two different doctors blew off. It turned out that I had a tubal pregnancy. (I hadn't known I was pregnant. ) It all came together when my tube was rupturing at home and I finally went to the ER. Lost the tube and nearly my life. But most of my incidences of spotting have been pretty benign.
Let us know what helps you!
~Mama to Many~
Acidophilus
Posted by Yuma (Calgary, Ab, Canada) on 11/30/2013
I am so glad I found this website...Thank you so much everyone you have no idea how much support I got here from reading all your postings this morning. I have been suffering from this condition for for over 2 years. Needless to say I went to multiple doctors and no help there. At work I am laughed out, avoided as the stinky girl in the office. It does not help that I am the visible minority....anyway I could not understand why I smelled like even though I shower everyday and clean myself with more care than most people still could not make through the day. I am going to try some of these remedies and I hope I will find one that will help....
Thank you thank you thank you
Acidophilus
Posted by Shan (British Columbia, CA) on 12/17/2014
Actually YES BV can cause spotting.. every time I've gotten it I've spotted. I knew it was the BV causing the spotting because I checked my vaginal ph with special testing wands that I bought from the pharmacy that are made to tell you if you have BV..they are sold right next to the yeast infection treatments. My doctor told me about them. However, if you are spotting and the test comes back negative then it may be something else and you should talk to your doctor. Sometimes a new birth control can cause spotting as well. You should probably consult with your doctor regardless. Better to be safe than sorry right? But yes, spotting is often caused by BV and mine was caused by this every time.
Acidophilus
Posted by Nellybop (Orlando, Fl) on 01/30/2012
Yea the Acidophilus powder is the best. It's way less messier than yogurt and gives you the probiotics instantly. Here are my tips : Use Acidophilus that contains at least a billion live cultures. Also use the refrigerated kind! I cant emphasize enough how many different types of Acidophilus I have tried. It's something about the cold kind that really works. I guess it makes sense, since yogurt is cold and thats what helps to keep the cultures alive in it. You can get the refrigerated kind from a health store of Whole Foods or something. Also sometimes it may be too strong for you and you have to work your way up. If its too strong, it can give your vagina that "raw" feelings :(. Try a half of capsule at 1st. And if that doesnt work use a whole one. I take mine orally and vaginally but the vaginal way works the best. Good luck ladies! Also watch what you eat. The food that you eat can cause bad bacteria.
Acidophilus
Posted by Mel (Piscataway, New Jersey) on 01/31/2012
I've struggled with BV for about 4 or 5 years now. I initally got it when I started having sex with a new partner (protected). I had no clue what the smell was and my mom suggested I douche and it got worse. I worked at a doctors office so I was prescribed Metro 500mg. We continued having sex and it would come back every now and then. I changed my partner 2 1/2 years ago and it's since been an ugly crazy cycle of BV--> Metro 500mg--> Yeast Infection. Over and over and over again. It clears up and comes back as soon as I have sex with my boyfriend.. Both protected and unprotected. I went to get a pap about 4 months ago to get tested for Std's because I had no clue why this kept happening. The gyn said that once the bacteria is there it is super hard to get rid of and again I was prescribed Metro.. Only to be followed by a Yeast Infection. Who knows how much money I've spent on it... I'm probably immune to it. I decided that I needed to do a little more research on this seeing as I cant live the rest of my life ducking sex with my boyfriend and always being on crazy meds that do NOTHING! So I found this site!! It seriously made me wanna cry seeing that I'm not alone and I'm not this dirty girl. I tried a couple things I'm gonna go thru the list:
Acidoplius- I went to the health food store and got a refrigerated one and took 2 pills orally for 14 days. The smell went away and most of the discharge and I was so happy... until I had sex and it came back.
Femodophilus- This didnt work at all. I used it orally.. And inserted it.. and honestly after inserting it my bv came back crazy.
Folic Acid- I've been taking this everyday. I'm not sure if its working or not but I'm gonna continue to take it.
Peroxide Douche- This WORKS! But ONLY when it comes to getting rid of the odor for a few days. I put half water half peroxide and douche with it.. This is so heaven sent.
Greek Yogurt- I've been eating this on and off(my off days when I run out)I feel that this does a good job at repressing it. I dont notice discharge when I eat it.
I've also been going commando as much as possible as well as using an ordorless soap to bathe with.
I just ordered a different brand of acidophilus from Vitamin world so I'm gonna try that along with continuing to eat my greek yogurt and taking my folic acid everyday.
Tonight I'm going to try some Tea Tree Oil since thats awesome at getting rid of bacteria and fungus.. I'm not sure how I'm gonna insert it but I'll figure it out.
I encourge every one to try all of the methods that are listed on this site theres something that will at least repress it a lil bit for all of us.
Good luck!!
Acidophilus
Posted by Mandy (Ny) on 02/01/2012
@ Mel I hear you, I too have Bv, I have written here a number of times, I do not know how to be rid of this, forget the doctors they know nothing, this thing is ruining my life and making me depressed everyday, what once was a sexy confident woman is now a woman in a shell, I honestly do not know what to do, I'm broke, spending money on this that and the yogurt? Please, nothing for me:(( when I get my tax return, I'm gonna buy femanol, I need this odor to be GONE!!! Damn I do not have a lot of discharge, just some, and bam it smell like fish!! Ugh, I got this 7 years ago, when I douched too much, I never even heard of this, ever, I'm not a dirty woman, but I sure as hell feel like one, I tried fem dophilus too, waste of money as was Bv essentials.
The only thing that was ok for me was the boric acid, but that is expensive!!!! 28 dollars for 7 pills:(( But I'm gonna make my own soon, I did notice when I took it, there was no smell, then I ran out:((, I was so happy those days I had no smell:))This is some nasty thing to deal with, I can't even sit for long period of time:(( what a damn shame, the doctors know their meds do not WORK!!! I met a nice guy and if he knew I smelled like this he would be gone... Damn you BV!!!
Acidophilus
Posted by Happy_az_now (Perth, Wa, Australia) on 02/20/2012
I honestly can't believe that this worked. After reading all the threads from here on Friday night I knew this was the problem. I went to the chemist on Saturday and they told me to go to the doctors, which takes ages here. I'm sick of that smell. I sit down and I can smell it in no time. I have a shower think yes this time it must be all clean, aren't I washing properly even though I make sure I'm washing overly. So when I read that peroxide could help get rid of that horrid smell I couldn't wait to get back to the shops to get some and try it. I got 2 bottles cause I thougt nothing could kill it, but I didthe fist mix half water and half hydrogen peroxide and use a 30ml syringe to apply it. I laid down for 5 mins and held it in. I couldn't believe it when I got up had a shower and wiped dry and the smell was pretty much gone. So then I soaked a tampon in full peroxide and inserted and left it in there for a hour, it was sliglty burning but nothing unbearable and I read that it will do that if there is and infection. When I woke up in the morning and had a shower there was no smell when I dryed myself on the towel, still I inserted another soaked tampon but this time in half water and half peroxide just cause I know it maybe a bit sensitive from the last day wore it to work and took it out after 2 hours. Today is the first day in the last year I have been at work and there is no discharge, which as u all know feels so gross. Sometimes so much They feel and are wet, which isn't desirable at work!!!!! And best of all there is no disgusting smell that ranged from fishy to mouldy kind of smell.
This problem had me so depressed, I felt dirty, gross and wrong. After getting on here nad seeing how common it is I feel like a new person today. Thaks to everyone of you ladies who have taken your time to post here so people like me could get the help they need!!!!
Acidophilus
Posted by Nicole (Sewell, Nj) on 11/22/2011
Hi,
I have been dealing with BV for years and have read all of the remedies on this site. I've already tried the yogurt and it didn't work so I am going to try the acidophilus pills inserted in the vagina. My local health store only carries capsule form and I was wondering if this was safe to insert in the vagina. Also, if anyone has done this, I would love to hear if it worked for you. Thanks!
Acidophilus
Posted by Momat27 (Union City, Ga) on 12/02/2011
Don't just use any acidophilus, you should try the fem-dophilus they have the two main strains that will help you balance your ph, you can get this on amazon.com. Also I know everything does not work for everyone, I use the yogurt everytime after sex, I put it in with a turkey baster, I use the plain yogurt from publix, it's disgusting, I have only been bv free for one month so far everything I've been trying has been working. I don't wash the yogurt out I insert it and let it come out as if I was using a cream of some sort, it usually take most of the day, wear a liner, I take vitamin d, b, folic acid, and oil of oregano pills. I don't know what's really working but so far I've been good. Try prayer also, that's my favorite medicine :)
Acidophilus
Posted by Yay For This Site (Oconomowoc, Wi) on 10/17/2011
★★★★★
Wow so grateful to have this site and thanks to all of the wonderful contributors. I am 40 and just got my first experience with BV about a month ago. Thought it was a yeast infection but the symptoms weren't right and treating for that only gave me a bladder infection. I tried the Hydrogen Peroxide on a tampon with NO improvement whatsoever, so decided to try this. I took 800 mcg of Folic Acid morning and night for the first 3 days and a FloraJen (20 million) (on an empty stomach) and then I only took one 800 mcg Folic Acid and one FloraJen per day after that. I got my girlie days after I started, so I don't know exactly how long it took, however after one week at the maximum, I have NO MORE SYMPTOMS at all. Yay!! Thanks everyone, hope you all find yourselves happy and healthy.
Acidophilus
Posted by Soph (New York, Ny) on 12/14/2011
Taking a bath with one cup of apple cider vinegar always does the trick for me of getting rid of a BV infection.
Acidophilus
Posted by Nickoli (Portland, Oregon, America) on 12/15/2011
@Cate from Auckland, New Zealand- hi I have bv and I'm only 16 too. its nice to know I'm not the only youngish person with this problem, so thanks.
I've had it for about five years now, starting just before my period did. I still cant get it to go away, but there's a lot of suggestions for remedies here, and I hope they will help. Do what you can to get rid of it now, because I waited a long time before trying and I think that made it worse.
You should try not to eat sugar, I've been to a doctor about 5 times and she always says that. Fruit should be okay though. You need to wash up, she said takes lots of baths rather than showers- baths are good for you, and no soap or other stuff, just water. To wash up with soap you can take a shower afterward or later. I take lots of baths and they do help, but don't cure it, so I need the other remedies. I have tried the antibiotic pills and gel multiple times and they haven't worked, but I think if you haven't had it long the oral pills might work. I've also tried acidophilis and it didn't work (but try that, it works for a lot of people! ). Get lots of air down there, it should get some oxygen, my doctor suggested sleeping with no underwear on. I've heard of yogurt helping too, and cranberry juice too.
If you have some money you can buy this stuff at the store, but if you wanna see a doctor you'd probably have to tell your mom. I told mine, which was hard and I really dreaded doing that, but it wasn't so bad. My dad complains about me taking baths so much, but there's no way I'll tell him why so he just has to deal.
Other stuff: the gel might lead to yeast infection I've heard so shouldn't try that, and also sex (and wearing tampons too long or to much) can make it worse. Ok thats all, bye!
Acidophilus
Posted by Heather (Portland, Or) on 12/16/2011
@ Southernbelle - thanks for the summary. I implemented several of the suggestions and it worked. Since I don't know which one thing did the trick, here is the list of "cures" I used:
- acidophilus probiotic pill (refridgerated kind) inserted into vagina twice a day- I lied down each time, similar to the suggestion when using a yeast infection suppository.
- external vulva wash with hydrogen peroxide a few times a day (this stung for about 30 seconds the first few times, then I didn't feel it thereafter)
- drinking organic cranberry juice (pure, undiluted, with no sugar) several times a day. This stuff tastes NASTY, but I did it anyway. During the first few days I felt a difference down there within a few minutes after drinking each cranberry shot (I'm not sure if the instant response was psychosomatic... perhaps brought on by the bodies need to recover from the nasty, super-bitter cranberry taste.)
- folic acid, B12, multivitamin and Omega 3.
-cotton panties by day, nothing by night
Acidophilus
Posted by Drea.74 (Tampa, Florida Usa) on 12/25/2011
I have been suffering BV as well as UTI on and off for about 3 years now. I am on inhaled corticosteroids which are taking their toll on my immune system. I have been living on Metrogel and Flagyl (BTW, Licensed Healthcare Professional here). Went to the pharmacy to fill a script for ABT for raging UTI and decided to try the Acidophilus tabs instead of the tea tree oil. I have completed one full day of acidophilus via vagina (one in the AM one in the PM). I purchased a "piston" and did a vaginal flush with H2O2 diluted with regular tap water. No abnormal discharge nor sour smell (at times the vagina would have a fecal odor to it from the bacteria). I will not over do the H2O2 flushing. I find that after intercourse, the BV returns raging. I think I will stick to H2O2 flush after intercourse and once this seven day period is over, I will take the Acidophilus once daily by mouth. I have also incorporated Cranberry Caps which contain Vitamin C and E in addition to my Essential Daily Multivitamin. I think the homeopathic way will definitely beat science. My local pharmacist agrees with my theory.
Acidophilus
Posted by Notatourist (Phnom Penh, Cambodia) on 01/15/2012
Hey all, I am living in Cambodia and have some severe doubts about the medical system here. I think that I have BV. I went to the doctors before I left and had no problems. I am not sexually active here. Recently I have developed a white discharge with kind of a bad odor. Not to be digusting, but it is like a paste. I have never had a yeast infection either. I can probably get any antibiotic but have some doubts on what to choose. Any advice?
Acidophilus
Posted by Teeny (New York) on 01/18/2012
Hello ladies! I just wanted to let you all know that I'm in the same boat! It's driving me absolutely crazy where I have no idea what to do next. I'm only 26 years old and have been dealing with bv for about 6 years now and have only had two partners in my life. I've been in and out of the doctors spending ridiculous amount of $ on antibiotics that only help for a certain amount of time then back right where I started. I used to have an awesome sex life with the guy I'm with now for the last seven years and now I'm so insecure to even do anything because is so embarrassing.
Well I came on this site and tried a few of the home remedies they did not work for me. The yogurt in the vagina and femadophilus did nothing. Douching with baking soda and water did nothing. Douche with ACV did nothing. I was hysterical thinking this was gonna be my life. So I went to the doctor one final time got some antibiotics and took some femadophilus and thought all was well until a week before my period I had that embarrassing odor back. I had some left over metronizole vaginal gel so I put only a little in my vagina for 4 nights while taking two femadophilus pills a day along with one vitamin D pill and one folic acid pill and eat one Greek yogurt everyday. The smell was gone in two days and throughout my whole period and now it's been a week after. I would recommend this home remedy to anyone. Thanks to all who were before me to give me some ideas to use. Good luck just got to keep trying to see what works for you.
Acidophilus
Posted by Veena (Los Angeles, Ca) on 01/25/2012
OMG!!! Ladies this website is a real godsend!! I really don't like to taking meds and would much prefer to use a more natural remedy to cure my BV. I am going to try a combination of suggestions listed and report back. I really think docs should use more of a natural approach vs. Prescribing antibiotics which can cause more issues. In my opionion. Thanks a ton ladies for sharing....
Acidophilus
Posted by Tiredofhavingbv (Shreveport, La) on 02/07/2012
I have had this horrible BV for about a couple of years now. It has turned me into a insecure person. Too afraid to get close to anyone due to my BV. Never knew what it was untill I came across this video on you tube about BV! Started searching for solutions online. I keep getting those crazy sites trying to sell that "book" to get the answers. I knew there had to be a better way.
Then I came across this site! MY PRAYERS WERE ANSWERED! I could not believe so many other women out there where just like me! I cried and cried when I realized what pain they where going thru just like me. So first thing I did was went to the store got Acidophilus pills, a gallon of Apple Cider, Hydrogen Peroxide, and a douche. Bathed in the Apple Cider. Worked for a couple of hours, but by the end of the day it came back. Tried the pills by swallowing and inserting directly. Did nothing.
So my Last hope was the Douche method with the hydro. OH MY GOD! It worked! I had to do it twice, but the smell was GONE. Now I have to say, later on in the day it tried to come back. So I started doing the douche Twice a day. MY PROBLEM WAS SOLVED. I cant express how much this site has changed my life! Yes douche twice a day is a hassle, but if this means all I have to do is this to get my life back. NO PROB! Now I have only did this for about 2 weeks, but I will try to come back and give a follow up on my progress in BEATING BV.
I hope this helps someone else get closer and getting there life back. I am grateful for the women before me and posted what worked for them. If it wasn't for them, don't know where my life would have ended up. GOD BLESS
Acidophilus
Posted by Healthybear (Richmond, Virginia, Usa) on 09/28/2011
I have suffered and tried just about every remedy known. I must say that yogurt, probiotic drinks, folic acids and baking soda has worked for me. I also changed my partner, I felt he was part of the problem due to his dental issues (he had a sticky mouth). I would like to urge each woman that has an ACTIVE infection to get treated. The last infection I had was almost three months ago. I started off with a round of flagyl, followed up by a dose diflucan, which I had to ask my Dr. for after researching and learning the cycle of Bv-yeast infection. Before I started flagyl, I took 1 dose of diflucan, once I finished my anti-b, I took another dose of diflucan. So think, front end defense, and back end defense. After which, I took fem-D twice per day for 30 days. I paid close attention to things around my cycle, it came and went with no sign of BV. Not even so much as an itch! I even noticed that my cycle flow was different. As I stated earlier, I got rid of my BF (no sex) which gave me plenty of time to get in tune with what was going on with my body.
About 1 week ago, I was with my new BF (we used protection)... Still no sign of BV. I would get infections in the past even with condom use. He even did oral, which usually sets me off with an infection, and still nothing-NO BV. I was a little scared after we were together so I inserted PLAIN GREEK yogurt inside for 3 nights, on the 3rd night I douched with 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 1 quart of warm water. CLEAN AS A WHISTLE! So my regimine is this: Fem-D once per day, probiotic drink 3x's per week, folic acid everyday, and baking soda douche when I feel I need to (no more than 1x per month I'm thinking). I also eat greek yogurt 3 times per week, if you don't like plain yogurt, get the one with fruit on the bottom. That flavored stuff is not helping. Hope this helps someone.
Acidophilus
Posted by Sad (Help, Nevada) on 10/03/2011
Help! I've tried so many things I can't even list them all. I've spent so much money on this and nothing is helping. I got relief a few times only for a day. I don't have a coming and going infection it is never ending! I am only 21 and I've had bv since I was 19, it ruined a 3 year relationship. I'm so depressed I don't even know what to do anymore :(
Acidophilus
Posted by Healthybear (Richmond, Va) on 10/04/2011
@ Sad-I certainly understand and I do feel your pain. You can beat this with faith and patience. I became so frustrated one day that I PRAYED and asked GOD to please heal my body and give me the knowledge to take care of myself. I have to give all praises and glory to HIM. The first thing I suggest you do is if you have an "active' infection, get treated with either flagyl or metrogel. A lot of people are against the medicine, but you want to be sure the infection has been treated. I used metrogel for years only to have the infection return after having sex. After researching, I figured out that after being treated with any type of antibiotic, you end up with a yeast infection. So what I thought was BV, was actually a yeast infection and then I would also get BV. So again, get yourself treated for BV. Ask your DR. For 2 doses of diflucan to treat the yeast infection you're going to get. Take the first diflucan with your first day of antibiotic, take the second dose AFTER you have finshed your last day of antibiotioc (the next day). No Sex!!!
Pay close attention to your body during your period. This will tell you if your medications worked. If you have no symptoms after your period (which is wehn BV can really show it's nasty head), you are well on your way to healing. Fem-D is getting great reviews and I have taken it but I don't anymore. My personal regemine is to eat GREEK yogurt (fruit on the bottom), drink dannon probiotic drinks, and I take 1 folic acid pill per day. I could be wrong, but I truly feel that our sex partners have a LOT to do with this cycle of infection (for some of us). I think that if you are with a man that is unfaithful or indulges in anal sex (with females or males) this could be an issue. Again, I'm no expert but dealing with this has caused me to really question WHY it keeps coming back. I've been BV free for over 3 months. I changed a few things in my life so I'm not sure exactly what I did right, but I can now have sex protected and (as of 1 week ago) unprotected and I'm fine. I failed to mention also that at least 1x per week, I insert plain yogurt inside as a re-inforcement to keep a good number of good bacteria down there. A warm water and baking soda douche (1 teaspoon to 1 quart water) 1x per month is not a bad idea either. I only did it once but it didn't hurt anything. My DR. Suggested I do it so I did. I also read somewhere that drinking water mixed with 1.5 teaspoon of water helps to as maintainence. I did that as well, but I don't anymore. Hope this helps.
Acidophilus
Posted by Sammi (Albuquerque, New Mexico, Usa) on 10/11/2011
LADIES!!! THIS IS A MUST READ! I've struggled with BV for about a year. I've tried everything! Every home remedy and nothing worked. Recently I came across "vh bv treatment". GO GET THIS PRODUCT NOW!!! I've never been the type to write reviews but I need to let you ladies know about this product. It IS the first over the counter treatment for bv. You can get it at walmart, walgreens, or cvs for about 25. 00 bucks. The first day I used it it completely got rid of my fishy odor. I really recommend this. Do your own research on this product, but I'm telling you it WORKS! It feels so nice to not have to worry about the odor. It's like a weight lifted off my shoulders. I am once again the confident young woman I used to be! P.S. I used the whole pill, with the insert my first time, even though it recommended halfing the pill, in case of side effects. I recommend u take the whole pill too if you want to get rid of that odor quick.
Acidophilus
Posted by Mandy (Nyc, Ny) on 10/13/2011
Dear Sammi,
Im going to CVS to buy the product you talked about, believe me I have tried EVERYTHING!!! Even the Femdophilus, nothing works:((( I smell like fish, not too bad but bad enough where I just want to hide, I never in my life heard of bv, I think there should more info on this and the doctors need to stop perscribing things that do not work!!! I used to have confudence my sex life was great until 7 years ago, boom I got it after I caught a std, I douched because I felt dirty, not knowing I was messing myself up, when I had sex, the next few days I noticed a odor and when I went to the doctor she said you have BV, I said "what?" I never heard of this monster in my whole 40 years, this is killing me socially and emotionally, I'm depressed most of the time and the only time I feel clean is when I shower, I decided to change my whole diet, which is not bad, a lot more vegetables and fruits water yogurt keifer, I'm gonna leave the vitamins alone, they r not working for me and I don't want to waste my time on them, I met a lovely man, and it hurts me that we can not have sex, for what? So I can turn him off because my vag smells like dead fish? I'm not trying to be funny but I want to cry, I hope that CVS product works, I'm so broke, spending so much money on remedies, I just want my VAG back to normal, I'm gonna cut out the wine to because that is yeast and I read that feeds the bacteria, I will post this weekend to let y'all know how the product went for me, I do not have itching or burning, never painful sex, like I read some stories here, just slight discharge and fish odor, damn the stuff women go through.
Acidophilus
Posted by Taimy (Union City, Nj) on 10/21/2011
I agree with Sammi. VH Essentials is a great product to treat BV. Last week, my symptoms were flaring and so apparent that my sister noticed it and said, why does it smell like fish. The next day I went and got it, inserted the whole pill the first day and smell was gone. But I also took a probiotic by RePhresh and Folic Acid, and the smell got a little better earlier during the day. It's been a week and a half and no smell or symptoms. I regularly take the RePhresh Pro-B and Folic Acid, and still no symptoms. If you're looking for a quick remedy, use the VH Essentials for BV and take 800 mcg of Folic Acid. They really work overnight. Folic Acid is not only good for treatment of BV, but it also regulates your bowl movements. Ever since I've started taking the Folic Acid, my metabolism has increased, I have more energy during the day, my bowl movements are always at the same time everyday, and I feel amazing and confident because my BV is not noticeable and isn't flaring. If you're not on Folic Acid, you should be, it will help you so much with your BV and benefit you in the long run.
Acidophilus
Posted by Debbie (Milford, Pa, Usa) on 11/20/2011
I've unknowingly been suffering from BV for 4 years. My doctor never diagnosed it. I thought I had cancer or something. Finally I went into a urgent care center and the doctor took all the tests. A week later she called and said I had BV and prescribed Flagyl. That worked perfect. But the episodes came back twice after sex with the same partner.
I can feel a sensation right away even before any strong odor occurs.
This time I ran to the store to see if there was anything over the counter. I found BV Essentials too, and I'm agreeing with Sammi. I just took my fourth insert of VA Essentials last night. My first day I took the half a pill and could feel it working within 3 hours. The last two days I just felt really run down like my body was fighting this bacteria, That sensation comes and goes for a few hours at a time but never gets worse. But I get scared because after reading all these messages, I have just learned that this can just go on and on and this scares me. So many people have been through so much with this.
I'm going to do another round of treatment with the essentials on Tuesday. I also ordered two boxes (4 months worth) of the oral capsuls that you take one a day. Hopefully this will help.
Southernbelle from Atlanta, I agree, pray first. It's not the medicine but God giving us knowledge of what we need and working through that medicine.
Acidophilus
Posted by Debbie (Milford, Pa, Usa) on 11/20/2011
It's a few hours later and just wanted to give an update on how I'm feeling using VH Essentials. Like I said, I'm on my fourth day of using this and I have been feeling achy and tired like my body was fighting this though my symptoms never got worse. I took about 5 acidophilus' again today (I don't care if I overdose on them). I also took a One-A-Day.
I was getting my energy back as the day has gone on. I did some cleaning, went food shopping, did some cooking, played with the dogs outside. I rested for about an hour and I'm realizing I feel "NOTHING"!!!! I have strength back, I'm not achy or tired. I haven't obsessed about it the last hour and find my mind wandering onto other things.
Thank God for this relief and hope. Like I said, my last dose I take tomorrow night and then I'm going to go on one more round of this stuff. After that I'm taking at least 4 months worth of their capsuls which I'll take daily.
Hopfully this will work long term.
Acidophilus
Posted by Debbie (Milford, Pa, Usa) on 11/26/2011
One last follow up. I completed the Essential's treatment. All symptoms went away. The next day I started the capsules (to maintain a balance). The first day I could feel symptoms trying to come back, but they would come and go until by the end of the day they stopped and I was back to normal.
It's a few days later now and I've been taking the capsules every day and continue to have no symptoms. I have not had sex yet so I don't know to what extent that will trigger everything all over again. If and when that happens I will post again.
I know this hasn't helped everyone here. I feel blessed that it was able to help me.
Acidophilus
Posted by Kaykay (Mount Vernon, New York, United States) on 09/18/2011
I'm so thankful for this site... I'm a recently BV sufferer and almost lost my mind... The burning iching and the smell has been the worst. After reading 5 pages of post from all you wonderful ladies I started to have hope. I just went out and got the plain yogurt, Kefir and acidophilus capsules(1 billion). I took 2 capsules, mixed the Kefir, plain yogurt and opened a capsule in it. I put it in the turkey baster, layed on my back and inserted the mix and also applied some to the outside... After inserting I layed down to make sure it stays in... 30 minutes later........ WOOOOOW!!! Bad smell, itching and burning GONE! But I will keep it in for 2-3 hours and repeat for at least 5 days..
Thank you ladies sooooo much, couldn't have done it without you.... You ladies ROCK!
Acidophilus
Posted by Nikki (Atlanta, Ga, Usa) on 09/23/2011
I have been suffering from chronic BV and Yeast Infections almost to the day 2 years ago when I tried the non-hormonal IUD, Copper T. Ever since, I was in and out of the doctor's office with some sort of issue or another. It seemed I always had one or the other, a yeast infection or BV. It wasnt the first time that I'd had either, most women experience a yeast infection at some point and I had only gotten BV one other time 6-7 years ago and was resolved in one doctor's visit. But this was different. I was there constantly and finally I got frustrated and began to look for homeopathic methods of dealing with the problem. I also had my IUD removed (which didnt solve the problem, I guess the damage was already done). I found this site and began taking Folic Acid daily. I take 800mcg daily. I also take Acidophilus daily. I started out with Femdophilus that I was getting at the vitamin store, but I found with my travels that I dont want to take a refrigerate only tablet with me in my pill box as I dont have a way to keep it chilled. So I switched to the shelf stable brands... Right now I am using a chewable with 1billion active cultures. I have found that as long as I take both daily I am problem free. Fortunately for me, my BV doesnt usually come with an odor but the itching and discharge is enough to make a sane person nuts. I found that I had also been taking a Biotin 5 mg supplement that was also causing the yeast infections.
I was motivated to write today because I came back recently due to forgetting to take my Acidophilus a couple of days in a row and had a BV outbreak and I needed help. One of the posts recommended kefir and I tried it... I went to Whole Foods and got some Kefir smoothie/yogurt stuff and drank two smoothies immediately and have been drinking two for breakfast and two before bed. I have also doubled up on my Acidophilus, two in the morning and two and night... I've douched with peroxide and water (I use an infant nose/booger cleaner) twice in my morning shower and twice before bed over the tub and I am symptom free! I am blissfully unaware of my vagina in a way I didnt even know to value until this all started for me almost 2 years ago! I just wanted to add this post because I understand how you all feel and I wanted to encourage you to keep trying! This site has saved my sanity... more than you know...
Acidophilus
Posted by Christina (Ocoee, Florida) on 05/28/2012
@ Nikki from Atlanta, GA, You said that you bought a shelf stable brand that's similar to Femdolphilus since you didn't want to take refrigerated capsules around. Can you tell me what brand you were using? I, too, will be traveling and don't think I can carry something that needs to be refrigerated.
Acidophilus
Posted by Brooke From Atl. (Atlanta, Ga) on 11/22/2010
I just wanted to say that getting the very best acidophilus (or however you spell it! ) from a healthfood store (not from Kroger)is soooooo important. The "combo" wasnt working for me until I switched to good acidophilus. I got something called femdophilus which the owner of the store said goes directly to your vagina... Apparently it has for me so far! Thanks so much to all the "posters! "
Acidophilus
Posted by Kathie (Highland Park, Illinois, Usa) on 01/31/2011
What's the dosage for the boric acid and did your boyfriend get treated and if so with what and for how long??? Did it take care of the issue????
Acidophilus
Posted by Julia (Oregon, Usa) on 01/31/2012
What medicine should my boyfriend use to get treated for BV? I've had it 4 times in the past 6 months and my pharmacist suggested he gets treated. What types of medicines should he take? Does he need metroconizole pills (spelling?) He does not have a STD; he was recently tested. Any info you all have would be so very helpful; thank you!
Acidophilus
Posted by Ms (Miami, Fl) on 01/16/2013
HI, I had re current BV for a Year. I have not had it for 6 months.
Have your man wash everyday, before and after sex with an antiseptic skin cleanser. Bought mine at a pharmacy or get it online. No scented soaps on your vaginal area. I use a____ healing ointment inserted by fingers before sex and organic lubricant during sex. No sex during or 1 day after your period. Do not let your man ejaculate inside of you. Sperm change the PH. Wash everything in hot water, panties, towels, sheets. Take for 4 months daily probiotics. Take a good multi vitamin daily and add spinach to your protein shakes. No chicken with antibiotics. To get rid of smell use water and hydrogen peroxide mixture. Use fingers to insert it. Just a little to make smell go away until your body absorbs the right amount it needs of the probiotics. Stay possitive. You can get rid of this. GL
Acidophilus
Posted by C.s. (Holiday, Fl) on 09/22/2010
★☆☆☆☆WARNING!
I participated in douching with half peroxide half water, took folic acid, and inserted refrigerated acidophilus/probiotics from many testimonies I read here. That was roughly 2 years ago. I definitely received some immediate relief. I started having mild urinary issues a few months later and from there my health has plummeted. I have read some scary things about refrigerated acidophilus eventually expiring and turning into mold spores. I'm not sure how accurate this is but I sure wish I had even the slightest bit of that knowledge to eliminate that as a possibility regarding my current health concerns. I now have a systemic candida infection which is causing me severe pain! I don't have all the answers nor am I able to conclude that this was the cause... But if anyone has any clues or any suggestions feel free to do so. Please be warned that this a possibility and taking probiotics should probably remain an oral supplement...
Acidophilus
Posted by Lisa (Waynesboro, Va) on 09/26/2010
It could be that you were developing the systemic candida all along and the probiotics weren't much of a factor. I am on the candida diet, no yeast in products, no sugar, no fruit or milk products. It's not easy but it's not impossible. I feel tremendously better.
Acidophilus
Posted by Dianne1220 (Richmond, Va) on 10/10/2010
Last night I tried an acidophilus capsule inserted vaginally. 5 hrs later I woke up with cramps, and the capsule was still intact. I managed to get it out and the cramps subsided & I went back to sleep. Is there a better way to get the capsule in there, becasue they don't seem to dissolve inside of me! Not sure why...
Acidophilus
Posted by Danielle (Clif, Nj, Us) on 06/16/2011
I know this response is late but better late than never! Affliction with BV usually means you have a higher vaginal pH than normal (alkaline versus the normal healthy acidic vagina). A capsule will have trouble dissolving in an alkaline environment. Inserting the probiotic suppository after a peroxide douche or repHresh gel (that fixes your vaginal pH) will help the capsules dissolve.
