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.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Bvgon Byebye (Connecticut) on 05/24/2017
★★★★★
Ok ladies, so, I'm so excited to finally get onto one of these forums and tell my story. So like many of you, I have suffered from bv for a very long time since October of 2004 to be exact. And yes, I have tried every treatment out there including some home remedies as well. Nothing at all seemed to work. Now let me tell you this, one thing that your doctors will not tell you is that taking the antibiotic metronidazole will actually kill off both good and bad bacterial in your vagina. Yes, it will clear up your infection for the time being by eventually it comes back because the antibiotics also killed the good bacterial off to keep you right down there. So after reading just about everything I could find on the internet about this issue, I finally came across something that has changed my life forever.
So, the first thing I would do is go to my doctor and get medication for the bv but I would get the gel insert kind. Go home, start the medication but also go to a store and purchase this: Acidophilus pills; vitamin b with folic acid 400mg but if you find 800mg get that and also vitamin e. Start taking all three once a day and continue to do so everyday. As far as the folic acid, if you can only find the 400mg, take two of them a day but if you do find the 800mg you'll only need to take 1 a day.
I've read that this will work and so far for me it is working and I have no bv at all...
Remember, those antibiotics worked and killed off the bad bacteria but also killed off the good one as well. With the acidophilus you should be able to put the good bacterial back into your gut and then into the vagina also.
I really hope this will works for every single one of you.
Keep me posted.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Kristina (Mt) on 03/28/2017
Did you take all your stuff orally and what are the names?
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Ashley (Philadelphia Pa) on 11/17/2016
Hi. I am a 19 year old college student who is constantly on the go and thought I might have contracted an std or sti. Went to the gyno, had blood taken, a Pap smear, the whole nine. I told the doctor my symptoms and she said it was probably a yeast infection because she didn't see anything under the microscope. Took that pill, didn't work. Told her my symptoms didn't go away, I was perscribed metronidazole, then I got my period and afterwards now I see no good results. I am running to the store this weekend to try this out. I thought I was the only one, and I felt so dirty. I hope this works. Thank you all for sharing! I have had BV for about 2 years now and it is driving me nuts! Btw, was clear of all stds, sti's, infections and all. The gyno could not find anything wrong with me. So I hope this is my saving grace.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Needreleif (San Jose, Ca) on 08/04/2016
How long did it take to work for you? I've had this for 4 years and I can't take it anymor.e I have to use a boric acid suppository everyday and it causes sticky discharge!?
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Judy (Florida) on 05/01/2016
UTI - I take D-mannose & I have not gotten a uti in a couple of years. I would get at least one a year for 10 years. Also I take olive leaf extract for one month, then oregano oil caps for a month. Probiotics daily.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Marie (Springfield, Mo) on 11/29/2015
Thanks for sharing your experience. Sorry, but what is ACV?
EC: ACV = Apple Cider Vinegar
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Jess B (Washington) on 05/15/2015
★★★★★
Acidophilus & Folic Acid for Bacterial Vagniosis
I've been battling BV since my daughter was born almost ten years ago. I went through it with antibiotics as most have. My biggest success is with inserting the acidophilus and I seemed cured for almost two years. W
henever I start to feel "off" I insert a refrigerated acidophilus tablet vaginally in the morning and at night, as well as take at least one orally first thing in the morning and last thing at night before bed, as well as 1600mcg of folic acid in the morning. I've noticed a BIG correlation in my sugar & artificial color intake and having a flare up. I used to eat a ton of twizzlers and other "crap", and stopped for a long time. But I recently was at a kids birthday party and had quite a few artificial red candies that I swear brought on the fishy smell. So seriously limit your sugar intake! I don't doubt that D3 deficiency also has something to do with it, as well as our gut flora.
Another BIG thing that has helped me is "wiping up" every time I went to the bathroom, because bacteria can move from back to front, as well as sweating and tight jeans can be irritating. So instead of using those flushable wipes that are scented I fill a squirt bottle with 8oz filtered water and 1 Tablespoon of ACV (the good kind) squirt some on the tp when I'm wiping. It just helps maintain freshness/cleanliness. I read it in a natural health book I own and it works by dropping your PH, wiping away bacteria, and putting beneficial bacteria in it's place. A MUST TRY, TRUST ME!!
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Pink (Kentucky, US) on 10/30/2014
It sounds like you have urine leakage with the wetness and urine smell. You can do exercises to help with that and also give up caffeine. In some cases, there is nothing you can do about it. It's just a part of life for many women. Especially as they age or after having children.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Liz (Los Angeles, CA) on 08/23/2014
I have been using a Women's Care Probiotic Called Ultimate Flora... Please keep in mind that there are several strains of BV. These are the different strains..
Bacteroides bacteria
Gardnerella vaginalis bacteria
Gardnerella
Mobiluncus bacteria
Mycoplasma hominis bacteria
This is why many women continue to suffer from BV symptoms because the GYN has not performed a strain test. The strain test is an expensive test but very accurate and the Dr. will be able to give you an antibiotic specific for the strain of BV....
This also explains why some women claim that Acidophilus and Folic Acid didn't work for them... It did for me but it took 8 weeks for me to symptom free... Curing BV with home remedies takes weeks to be completely symptom free. If one home remedy didn't work for you. Try another one or a combination of home remedies until you find the one that's works for your specific strain of BV....
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Liz (Los Angeles, CA) on 08/22/2014
First of all I think this website is AMAZING. There's home remedies for everything from A-Z... I first found EarthClinic 8 years ago when I had my first go round with BV... I read all the comments regarding Acidophilus and Folic Acid. Many women claimed to be cured in less than 5 days. Ladies, it takes 7 days of taking Acidophilus for your vaginal PH to balance out. Once it balances out that's when the bad bacteria becomes less while the good bacteria levels rise. It took me 8 weeks of taking 1 Folic Acid and 1 15 Billion Count of Acidophilus 2x's a day before I was symptom free. I have continued to take 1 Acidophilus and 1Folic Acid daily. I still get reoccurances. Once you have BV it's a lifetime thing. The littlest thing will throw your PH balance off. This does work but it takes time. Be patient, don't give up.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Chloe (Indiana, US) on 05/27/2014
What kind of acidophilus did you buy? I just got the capsule form but it has some extra ingredients (citrus pectin and dicalcuim phosphate) that I am wondering if they are ok to put "up there."
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Mickey (Usa) on 05/09/2014
★★★★★
I have been struggling with bv for over 10 years. I had become so accustomed to it I ultimately forgot how to live without it. I would wear pantie liners all the time, or if I forgot, some tissue. I felt so disgusting... When I would go to the doctor they would prescribe me medications but none of them worked. my sex life with my husband became a standstill. I didn't feel sexy because of this condition and therefore didn't want to have sex. sometimes I would cry myself to sleep and tell God how it seemed so unfair that some women can do pretty much anything, and not have one flare-up, no yeast infection, no bv, nothing. however if I had sex, even eat too much greasy food, or bath in my favorite perfume soap I would catch hell. well I stumbled on this website by accident, and read about the folic acid and acidophilus combo. It was the best that I had ever done. I probably went over board in the amount I take, but you have to understand it seemed like I needed to overwhelm and shock my vagina to get a positive response. I was so tired of the failure. well anyways at breakfast I would take 2billion acidophilus tablets and two 400folic acid. for lunch 1billion and 1 400 for lunch, the same dosage for dinner. And finally the same dosage but inserted vaginally. I know these are high dosage and I plan to decrease it. results has been fantastic, no discharge, no smell, nothing. it's been three days now and still nothing. I keep checking because I cant believe it. I thought I would have to live with this for the rest of my life. but I pushed back. Give this method of a try, you have nothing to lose. Thank you Earth clinic.!
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Nina (Key West, Florida) on 05/15/2013
Yeah, I too have been dealing with this "creature for well over 9 years and I know how everyone feels here, I got it douching:*( bv takes over your life, I swear this has got to be one of the worst problems a women can have, I used to smell up a whole damn room, I cried and cried and I prayed, the doctors they know nothing, the last time I wen to the GYN she said I was okay, I knew I was not I could still smell it:( so now I have been taking a Probiotic for womaen vaginal health, for the past month, seems to be working, a little discahrge but no fish odor and people say I smell like my perfume, which they love, I too have met a nice man and he is great, we have not had sex yet , I am afraid the room might smell, even though I do not, I just want to get back to me, so beautiful but with this ugly inside, screw the docotors, and also I drink alot of water , I would never douche again, I trie HP and did not work, I say get the probiotics, from any health food store, in the cold section and stay on it, until the vagina is back where it needs to be, I will let you know, so far so good though, I never hear dof this in my life and I am over 40 and neither have my friends or mother, ugh, Go away!!!
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Black Betty (Denver, Co) on 02/07/2013
Update. OK, so I posted a few weeks ago about Folic Acid and Acidophilus.
Here's what I've found out. It turns out, the two don't work alone. I've definitely needed the peroxide douche (equal parts peroxide and water) once every couple of days (more often if we're having sex more often).
However, taking the FA and Acidophilus along with the peroxide douche is WAY BETTER than just douching.
So I take back what I said (well, half way! ) and add the douche every couple of days at least. This has been most helpful.
On a side note, I've kinda noticed my guy's diet seems to play a big role in how often I'm douching as well... I actually noticed that HE smells a little fishy, even if we haven't actively had sex in a couple of days. He'd been eating a lot of flounder. Ick! Once he kicked that things were better. Has anyone else had any problems with their guys' spunk being a little 'off' and it correlating to your 'down there' problems? Just wondering...
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Black Betty (Denver, Co) on 01/10/2013
★★★★★
I've been suffering from BV for the past 10 years (ever since I first became sexually active) and it's been a nightmare! I've tried everything from Flagyl and other antibiotics to peroxide/water douches to sticking garlic up my hoo-ha, to fasting (including ALL sugars, even naturally occurring and carbs), but to no avail.
After years of being single and embarrassed I finally met a wonderful man (it's a very new relationship) and I didn't want my vagina taking control of our sexual relationship. So after reading this website for a couple of weeks I thought, "What do I have to lose? Except for my happiness if I don't try something new! "
I've been on 2 week long regimen of a multivitamin containing 400mcg Folic Acid in the a.m. followed by 800mcg Folic Acid plus one Probiotic containing Acidophilus in the p.m. The first few days after starting this regimen, I noticed a slight difference, but nothing that was convincing me. I decided to stick with it though, and boy, am I glad I did! Not only did things clear up, but I have a 'normal' discharge I haven't seen since I was 17 years old.
Yesterday I had sex with my man and was prepared for the worst but guess what? Nothing horrible happened. I just kept up with my regimen and have been dilligent.
I keep seeing all of these women asking if they'll have to take the FA and PB for the rest of their lives, as if they're really worried about it. I have to say, I'd rather take a little pill every day that was good for me, than suffer with BV another day. It's nice to feel normal for a change, and not feel self-conscious every time I walk into a room, or every time I undress in front of my boyfriend.
I have confidence I haven't felt in a decade. Years of doctors simpling prescribing and not getting to the root cause, no matter how many times I sat in their offices crying and feeling at a loss, made me lose hope.
This site has saved me potentially thousands of dollars and probably even a lifetime of loneliness. I am so grateful to all the women here who helped!
I'll try to keep everyone posted after my next menstrual cycle and also over the next few months to let you know how it's working out. And to anyone on the fence about trying this out, I say go for it! Risk a few dollars (in total, my multivitamin, folic acid and probiotics cost less than $20), and try something that could potentially solve this mess once and for all.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Relieved (Philadelphia, Pa) on 11/19/2012
Im sooo happy I found this website... I feel so dirty and fed up like what and how am I goign to habndle this been to the doctor too many times. Finally I was getting sick from the pills and said let me look on online. Thank you ladies. Im going to GNC right now...
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Daytime (Oakland, Ca) on 07/02/2012
I have yet to try folic acid and acidophilus. The perscribed medicine usually works for me for a few months, then I'll forget to take my birth control, or accidentally wash with a different soap, then the BV comes back :( I am on my way to pick up another round of Flagyl, AND to a health food store for folic acid and acidophilus. I believe these flare ups are coming from me cutting dairy out of my diet, as well as changing my birth control pills. Thank God for an understanding boyfriend, and these little forums. Thank you ladies, and keep fighting! Maybe I'll come up with the cure for this terrible thing!!!
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Petal (Dunedin, New Zealand) on 06/01/2012
Greetz ladies, Its been so interesting reading your comments and experiences, thankyou. I've suffered on and off from BV for many years ( I'm in my 40's). Only once was it diagnosed ( at a time I had no symptoms ironically) but I know now exactly what triggers it and moves it on. Yes being run down and not eating enough fresh raw food, too much sugar and alcohol, not enough water make for an imbalanced internal system which leaves one vulnerable however there is something that has become more and more important in my eyes after years of research, failed relationships, accusations of STD's etc and is something that I have seldom read about.. Its more putting all the pieces of the puzzle together... And that is this: When the pH in your vagina goes out from the slightly acidic perfered state, BV blooms.. Things such as antibiotics, sugar disturb the fine balance. AND SO CAN SEMEN.. Semen is alkaline and will alkinalise the vagina AND post-vasectomy, semen is even more alkaline! .. So many women posting here say their BV started, returned or got worse when the went on the pill or got an IUD, or were pregnant, , , for me it really blew up when my ex-husband and only sexual partner for years had a vasectomy!! When men (with their own internal imbalance perhaps) ejaculate inside of women, women are more vulnerable to BV.. Vinegar and these other acidic compounds help to restore balance.. Also, If you are menstruating and having sex not only is your vagina more vulnerable to BV by virtue of low levels of beneficial mucus but also, your man is more likely to ejaculate inside of you... Hence.. Double whammy.... When my current sexual partner ejaculates outside of me I DON:T GET BV after sex.. When he does ejaculate inside me, I GET BV BIGTIME..
What I want to know is WHERE IS THE RESEARCH BEING DONE ON THIS AWFUL MALADY WHICH ONLY SEEMS TO EFFECT WOMEN??? HMF!
ps. all the best with your resolution dear women ... Be strong and keep remembering to treat your body as your temple
petal
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by S.marie (Fort Lauderdale, Fl) on 04/21/2012
You could have been taking too much of the folic acid. When folic acid builds up in the body it can irritate the nerves in the extremities. Just take the RDA for folic acid which is 400 micrograms/ day, rather than doubling up like some women were doing.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by S.marie (Fort Lauderdale, Fl) on 04/21/2012
I'm 21 and just started suffering with BV this January. I had never had any kinds of vaginal problems before. I've gone to the doctor and been treated 3 times already. Each time I'm better for a few weeks and then it comes back. I also did not have a fishy odor, more like vanilla and it did not "fill the room, " I could only smell it when I went to the bathroom or after intercourse (with my one and only partner BTW). I have been researching BV and I am so glad that I found this site because I am fed up with antibiotics that do nothing for me! I am going to try folic acid and acidophilus and hopefully it works! I felt so dirty and down in the dumps since I have been dealing with this. My fiance is very supportive though, which helps me be a little less embarrassed by it.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Campgirl (Las Vegas, Nv) on 04/17/2012
Bless your heart! I too have been plenty miserable. I went today and bought Fem-Dophilus from Vitamin Shoppe. I also bought 800mcg of Folic Acid. I switched my laundry det to free and clear, stopped wearing thongs, and only wear cotton. This acidophilus is the best on the market made for woman and the vaginal tract. I have only done these things less than 24 hours and already a huge difference. I am taking FD twice a day and inserting one vaginally at night. Be sure when you buy the FD it is refrigerated because the cultures are live and it will not work if not refridgerated. Hope this helps. I will keep you posted.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Mandy (Ny) on 01/20/2012
I'm so tired of this monster bv, I used to be a sexy woman, now I'm a shell trapped in my own body, I'm depressed and I'm mad at myself I got this, why is there no cure? I mean damn wtf? I can't even sit down for a long time because when I get up I will smell like fish, such a shame all of us are going through this, I been to the doctors many times same crap. I never even heard of bv, I swear I wish I did I would have done anything to prevent it. I met this beautiful man, and I can't be with him because of this, I can't, he loves me but I smell down there. If he knew he would run, and that kills my heart. I'm a clean woman, I wash all the time and same ole fish smell, I tried all the remedies and to NO AVAIL, I do not know why my body won't fight this infection. I'm a healthy woman, I had this seven years and ugh u can all imagine, how can I be at work like this? I'm unemployed now, but I went back to college and the class stinks like fish and they know it is me:((( I'm so depressed, all I do is cry, this is no way to live at all. it is pure hell.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Timh (Louisville, Usa) on 11/01/2011 2048 posts
Mrs T., I have read where some N.D. 's recomend Povidone Iodine prior to the acidophilus, especially in persistent cases, as the iodine cleans house for the friendly bacteria to better make their home.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Mrs T. (Augusta, Ga) on 10/31/2011
★★★★★
I truly want to thank each and every lady that posted on this site about bacterial vaginosis. I truly though that I was an anomoly or something. I have been dealing with this problem for a little over 10 years and what this website have done for me in one day had me in tears. I felt like my womanhood had been snatched from my body. But THANK GOD for leading me to read the testimonies.
Box of Douche- $1.49
Acidolphilus- $7.00
Folic Acid- $5.39
Getting my womanhood back- PRICELESS
Thank You.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Sadie (London, On) on 09/15/2011
★★★★★
I was a suffer from BV, at first I thought I had a sti but wasn't sexual active at the time, but yes its bv and wow... What a horrible thing to go thro... So I would like to say that I haven't had it for probaly about a year now. I take a strong probiotic 3 times a day EVERYDAY and 1 folic acid. Now if you suffering right now you should take 2 folic acid for a couple of days untill you feel better. Also inserting organic plain yogurt into you vag like 2 or 3 times a day (when suffering) has amazing results. I do the yogurt thing once in awhile for good measure. I can't tell you how much better life is without bv.
Now I do find that a yeast infection creeps in every so often but I'm going to do a candida cleanse soon to take care of that... But for you bv sufferers.... I swear by it... I never douched or inserted the pills and it worked great for me. The yogurt brings immediate relief. Make sure it's organic tho otherwise it contains some other stuff in it. Hope I help someone out there! We woman need each other for things like this, I since then have found other woman that constanly fight uti, yeast infection and bv and am still suprised by how little we talk to each other about these things. Next time your out with your gfs, bring it up... Chances are you could help one of them... It's an embarsing thing so you never know who is suffering as well.... could be your best friend.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Felicity (England, Uk) on 09/12/2011
OMG I've had the vanilla smell with bv too! I thought I was the only one as I've never seen/heard it being mentioned before.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Holly (Hammond, Louisiana) on 08/29/2011
Thank god for this site!! I thought I was diseased unitl I read all your posts. I have been taking Lactobacillus/acidophilus --the live culture that is kept in the fridge for two days now and it is helping!!! After reading all your posts I am going to pair it with folic acid and try inserting yogurt. I am afraid of the hydro douch bc douching has given me yeast infections in the past. I would just like to say a huge thanks to all you ladies for being brave enough to share your stories becuase I know how embrassing it is to have BV. I will never eat fish again!!! LOL ;)
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Naturalgirl (Colorado Springs, Colorado, Usa) on 04/14/2011
Honey is great for non-BV related reasons; it's for sure better than artificial sweeteners or refined sugar and it can help with allergies if you're buying local honey. However, it still has a high sugar content so if you eat a lot of it it's still going to attract BV like bees to... :-)
To reduce BV (and yeast infection) risk you'll want to minimize sugar intake including natural sugar from honey, so a better substitute is Agave, which has a lower glycemic index, and better yet, Stevia. Agave is yummy sweet syrup made from cactus, and Stevia is liquid or powder made from an herb. Stevia has no bad side effects, it's the only sugar substitute that's actually good for you. A little bit goes a long way. It tastes gross plain, but it's good mixed in with beverages or foods--I think you can even bake with it. Since you love sugar you might want to wean yourself off using Agave and Stevia and eventually just do Stevia.
Sugar is an addiction, I used to be addicted too. Once you get off it though, you have all kinds of positive side effects and sugar will start to taste gross to you.
Enjoy! Wishing you wellness, we're in this together!
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Glo (Natural Bridge, Va./USA) on 04/01/2011
★★★★☆
I searched everywhere about the odor of BV, and found this site. Rushed to Drug store to get the Folic Acid 800mcg and Acidophillus, (nothing to lose) and before bedtime that night I noticed , no more odor. It does kill the odor, a big relief, but still had the infection. Dr. Re-treated with another anti-biotic, and it is now gone. Every woman should take these supplements.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Molly (Council Bluffs, Ia) on 01/30/2011
I have been dealing on and off with BV just like everyone else has. I feel like my story syncs up with everyone else's at some point! Been to the doctor at least three times, been prescribed Metrogel twice and Flagyl once. I am TIRED of the looks from the doctors of "Well this is all we can do. " WHY is there no cure for this?
I am willing to do anything at this point. I started taking Acidophilus pills (however I'm not very good at taking pills everyday! ) so maybe I will start trying that again. Been taking Vitamin C everyday now. Maybe folic acid will help keep things in check... I had a sinus infection and went through a round of anti-biotics and now BV has come with the worst vengence ever...
Reading other stories from other people who suffer is relieving to me. Lets hope these suggestions will at least keep BV to a good minimum!
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Jetset (Reston, Va) on 01/22/2011
Right now the doc has prescribed once weekly metrogel for 12 weeks w acidophilius. I added folic acid after reading this site. It's Day 2 and I've never felt better. Odor gone! Thanks God for this site, saved my marriage.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Lo2010 (England, England) on 01/17/2011
Hi, I am trying the method of: Am1 x garlic1 x acidophilus (oral) Pm2 x folic acid1 x acidophilus (oral)1 x acidophilus (vaginally). I have been doing this for a couple of days but within hours it comes back. It has reduced the smell a bit but it's still pungent and the discharge is worse than ever. I just want to be able to relax when I'm around people. I am at wits end and need someone's help. am I doing it wrong or what else can I do/ use to help me??? Thankyou, I'm sure you know how stressful it is.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Hydrogen Peroxide (Mount Vernon, Wa) on 09/27/2010
I had a UTI and the doctor prescribe me of course antibiotics. I knew it would effect my BV balance, and cause me hell, but I wanted to cure my UTI so I didn't have to ruin or hurt my others organs. Anyways I've educated myself for a while now so I wasn't going to play stupid at the doctors. I told the doctor what I do which is the same as you ladies, but let me warn you. STUDY HYDROGEN PEROXIDE. It's great for a fresh cut, or wound, but it's not meant to heal an open cut. Now imagine what it's doing in your vagina. My research says it only kills bad bacteria and leaves the good in your vagina, but the doctor explained more info. on hydrogen peroxide that I didn't know because I was too caught up trying to find a cure.
H.P. Is probably okay to use once a month but anything more you might be endangering your vagina, or most importantly not be able to get pregnant. My facts aren't stated or clear but do the research because what you think might be helping might really be bad for you. I'm only talking about hydrogen peroxide. I don't recommend it. Just stick with the probiotics and folic acid.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Laura (New Britain, Connecticut) on 07/12/2010
★★★★★
Firstly I just want to thank all the ladies who have contributed to this site - what an absolute God send! ! I have been suffering from BV since I was 17 (I am now 27) and have spent the last decade to-ing and fro-ing to my doctors. . . Only to be given antibiotics but for it to come back literally weeks later. I got to the point where I just accepted that I would have BV forever. I was never able to relax with boyfriends or even sometimes at work after a long day I swear I could smell it - even sometimes at the cinema - usually when I was sat down for prolonged periods of time! ! THe constant (and heavy) discharge literally meant I was spending $$$ on panty liners and new knickers - even sometimes having to change my underwear 2x a day it was that bad. So coming across this site and other internet websites I was willing to try ANYTHING. OK so to cut a long story short I have been taking
AM
1x multivitamin
1x (3 billion) Acidophlius capsule (orally)
PM
1x (3 billion) Acidophilus capsule (orally)
1x 800mg Folic Acid
1x Acidopophilus (vaginally - before bed)
Literally after just 48 hours - no discharge, no smell! This was 7 weeks ago and stil NOTHING! ! Hoorah, ladies I would recommend this to anyone who is at their wits end. After 10 years of BV, I feel like I am now finally cured!
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by London (Sandusky, Ohio) on 05/24/2010
Folic Acid with Acidophilus does work for BV, and Ive been doing it for years, but I think my body has gotten used to it, and so its not as effective. Also, this winter, having been suffering with chronic UTIs, I was on about 4 rounds of antibiotics PLUS I took 2 antibiotic injections at the health office. OMG!! My problems all started then. Ive been so ill, Im determined to never EVER use antibiotics, especially if they try to pressure you in the Emergency room, or Health dep, (went in for an STD panel, and I didnt even have an STD and they shot me up anyway) Dont do it. It suppresses your immunes system and they dont work anyway. I got rid of my UTI with coconut oil and olive leaf extract aswell as turmeric. Ive been so weak and sickly since then.
Anyway, Ive had a horrible vaginal infection for the last 3 months. Would not go away. What helped me was adding supplements such as a super B complex (very, very important. Those B vitamins are incredible, do some research on how important they are) and selenium, vitamin A 50mg, vitamin b6 50 mg(will make you nausous, take with food) zinc and magnesium, 100 mg each. I read on here that women with chronic yeast infections and BV, are many times deficient in selinium, b6, A, and vitamin D (which you can get by getting sunlight) Its been a long winter for me here in Ohio. Vitamin e, ALOT. 4 caps daily(2 in the morn, 2 at night) 1 tbsp of coconut oil melted in green tea once a day. Tons of acidophylus, get a super probiotic, with more than one strain of the good bacteria. I take chewable acidophylus aswell. and oregano oil, 1 cap every two hours, 2 hours away from acidophilus caps, (will kill the good bacteria) remember to take your acidophilus before you go to bed at night, and not with the oregano oil, (very imporatant, to replace good bacteria)I started making my own yogurt, to save money, and I drink it and eat it like its goin out of style. I also do elderberry extract, and I douch with hydrogen peroxide 50/50 when I get real "fishy down there) helps...
Im gettin better, but its a long road, be patient.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Dell (New York, Ny) on 03/30/2010
I am a bv sufferer as well, since switching partners 9 months ago. I have tried the hydo-peroxide douche, oral and vaginal treatments, acidophilus, etc. I have now tried increasing vit D (2000iu daily) as I read that helps but I just finished the flagyl treatment so not sure if it is working. Be careful with your intake of folic acid.
http://bacteriality.com/2007/10/02/diet/
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Noel (Deland, Fl) on 03/02/2010
★★★★★
folic acid and acidophilus cured my bv!!! so i am sooo excited to write this...i have been very depressed for the last 7-8 months because i tried every single remedy out there. i tried boric acid, yougurt, h202, and then some, not all at once of course...and then i tried this again, this is what got rid of my bv the first time i had it, but i totally forgot, and now i just hope this helps for someone else. ok this is what i did....i started inserting vaginally 1 acidophilus capsule(they dissolve easily) everynight for one week straight, and taking 3 400mg folic acid and 1 acidophilus capsule pill after lunch, and again the same amount after dinner. the key to this working for me was taking it twice a day, and doing this for a month without missing a day, but i did once or twice but immediatly got back on track and u will notice on the 3rd week the smell going away, and im on week 5 and i have normal not smelly discharge, lol..never thought i would be so happy to see normal discharge. i wanted to stop taking them after week 1 because i thought it wouldnt work, but dont give up ladies...it will go away, u just have to fight it! i will keep doing this for another month, and then try lowering the dosage to once a day. good luck, and i hope this helps someone.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Pahlee (Phila, P) on 01/06/2010
To Kira in Canton, When u say rinse with acv, r u doing this x ternal or n ternal as a douche?
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Elle (Houston, Texas) on 12/30/2009
★★★★★
Folic Acid & Acidophilus for BV
I developed BV for the first time in mid-November. I went to the doctor and got antibiotics. Which cleared up the symptoms but not without 5 days of the ever inconvenient vaginal inserts. The symptoms stayed gone for a few weeks but then as soon as my next period ended they came back. Desperate to not have this be a recurring problem I got on the internet and started finding out everything I could about what caused the infection and how I could get rid of it without a trip to the Dr. I was a little skeptical at first but I figured it couldn't hurt to try and if my symptoms didn't improve I'd call my ob/gyn. I took 5 acidophilus and 1200mcg of Folic Acid the first day I also switched to 100% cotton underwear all day and none when I went to sleep. Within 24 hours I noticed improvement. The second day I dropped the dose to 5 acidophilus and 800mcg folic acid. Then 4 acidophilus and 800mcg folic acid for the rest of the week. After 4 days my symptoms were completely cleared up and didn't even return after having sex. It's been a little over a week now, my symptoms haven't returned and I'm planning to cut back to 3 acidophilus and 400mcg folic acid (the recommended daily dosages listed on the packages) as a daily routine so that I can hopefully just stop having to worry about this all together.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Rhonda (Sf, Ca) on 12/27/2009
Hi bv-victim.......I wanted to follow-up on your reply, and thank you very much for reading my post. I have been researching endlessly on this thing and I found out yesterday that taking a vitamin D3 supplement may also be helpful. Im going to try this tomorrow after visiting my local natural health store. There seems to be a link between lack of sunlight (which creates low D3 levels) and BV. Its worth a try and there are a few comments on this site about its effectiveness. I will give feedback on what happens. I dont think the effects are as immediate as the douch/folic acid/acidopholus.....we shall see. I may also try a liquid acidopholus douche, as the peroxide and H20 are irritating to me and seem to make it worse, as I suspected it would but it was worth a try when the itching came back one day. It seems Im constantly taking more and more of everything to keep it at bay. This is also crazy. I plan to eliminate refined sugar from my diet and have stopped caffeine for about 2 months now and can feel a positive difference. I do think its liked to diet somehow and sugar especially. Im a self proclaimed sugar-a-holic. Im taking baby steps here and trying a little of everything until I get the right regimen for my body. Wow, this is quite a journey ladies!!!!! Thanks!
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Bvvictim (Atlanta, Georgia) on 12/26/2009
Thank you for your post Rhonda. I've been suffering from BV for so many years, even before I was sexually active. There must be a way to ensure that a woman's PH balance is maintained, and I too would like to see some serious clinical trials and research into a cure for BV. Medical professionals just seem to stick to cookie cutter solutions, and I'm tired of it. It affects almost everything I do. This site is the biggest help I have found.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Rhonda (San Francisco, Ca) on 12/05/2009
So I posted here earlier in the week after suffering from BV for about 12 years or so and finally found this site and started probiotics and folic acid with total and complete vanishment of my BV in about 2 days. No nasty smell, no discharge....simple as pie. Im so pissed off that something this simple (maybe not a cure by far, but relief) is common knowledge and we have ALL been suffering for YEARS!!! Certainly health care professionals know about this stuff. Im glad to report that after 6 days of taking folic acid (2 800mcg in the am, and 1 800mcg in the pm) and probiotics (4 5million in the am and 2 5million in the pm, with one inserted in my "youhoo" if I feel its needed). Its a Miracle is all I can say. I dont care if its not a cure, its not, its RELIEF!!!! Finally, relief, and I dont care how long it lasts, hopefully forever, but probably not. Its relief for now. There must be something we can all do to find out what causes this (besides sex). Why doesn't every woman on earth have it and why just some of us? Let me know if anyone is interested in forming some kind of research group or something. I mean, pull our health histories together and find a link. Im open to discussion. Thanks girls. We have to stick together on this issue because no one else is going to help us.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Rhonda (San Francisco, Ca) on 12/02/2009
★★★★★
Im a 44 year old that has suffered from BV for almost 12 years. I always thought it was a yeast infection until I saw pictures of BV. Oh My God! I just got another bout of BV last week and was at my witts end. I have a new boyfriend and I have been evading sex, which I never did before. The smell was too much to bear. I did not want to call my doctor for another prescription so I hopped online and started looking for another type of cure. I came across this website and it has literally saved my life. I was just about to jump off the Golden Gate Bridge. I tried the probiotic (acidopholus) and folic acid combination. Actually, I only had the probiotic (5 billion) at first and immediately shoved 2 of them up my "youhoo" that night and took 3 orally. The next day I purchased the folic acid and took 16mcg in the morning and 16mcg at night along with 3 probiotics (5 billion each) and shoved another one up my "youhoo" that night. By the first day it was gone with only inserting the probiotic. The second day with the probiotic and folic acid was a miracle. I never even did the H202 and H20 douche. I tend to be wary of those and knew it might make my situation worse. That is just me knowing my body. This site is dead on when saying you have to find the combination that is right for your body and most of us know our bodies. BV ruled my sex life for years. I think this is a regimin that has to be done for life. I dont think we can stop this. Its preventative medicine and BV will most likely never go away for those of us that suffer as we do. Im not going to stop this combination until it no longer works. That is the key......dont stop once you find the right combination. I also tried the ACV for my dermatitis and that was gone in 3 days. Im truly amazed that simple things like this, that have been available for ALL OF US, has just now been talked about. The medical community (whom I work for) does not want to loose money on patient visits so of course you will never hear about this from a doctor......NO, they would loose business. That is a shame. I just heard doctors at work talking about putting ACV on your face to cure things and they all agreed that is was a good thing, but they would never recommend it to their patients. WHY? They would loose money, that is the bottom line. Thank you for this site and thank you to all the posters who shared their stories about BV. Research certainly will never be done to help women with this problem, no none cares. Its up to us to find the cure, and I think someone has. If it has to do with men and their libido, then the money is there....otherwise forget it. THANK YOU!!!
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Sheree (Stockton, California) on 12/02/2009
Thanks for the feedback on Splenda! I was just kinda scared to quit sugar cold turkey for fear of a relapse...I wanted something in it's place. But I will try the honey...oh yea, and day 2 odor free!! Still slight itch though :-(
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Carmen (Nova Scotia, Canada) on 12/02/2009
hi. I am thrilled that things are improving for you but I was alarmed when I read about the splenda. Please read the information provided by EARTH CLINIC. I am certain it won't take long for the box to find it's way to the trash can, scary stuff!!!
p.s. Honey is a yummy alternative. Take Care
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Sheree (Stockton, California) on 12/01/2009
★★★★☆
Ok, seriously I want to cry right now. I came across this sight after searching so many places for a cure to BV. I have been suffering from it off and on for so many years I lost count. Not only is it embarrassing but it makes you feel like less of a woman. The odor is like bad eggs or rotten milk...and the itching before your period is almost unbearable. I would scrub and scrub myself in the shower and immediately after I would notice that I still smelled. Even worse, the discharge would get on my panties and it would be so noticeable that I would be scared to stand up and walk past people. Or I would leak through thin skirts...disgusting. I was on this site for 5 hours last night just reading people's testimonials and wondering if it was really too good to be true or if anyone was a paid sponser for acidophilus or folic acid pills, lol. Nonetheless, I trusted what I was reading. I have been off my period for about 3 days now...the itching is gone but the odor was here this morning like every day. I went to the store and bought some acidophilus pills (500 million live cultures? I think...) and Folic acid @ 400 mcg. I also bought some Splenda (they say sugar and caffeine increase BV risk), some plain yogurt and water. I took one acidophilus when I got one and one Folic acid pill...this was about 2 hours ago. I felt a little nauseous as I was cooking but it was very faint. So I come back to this site because now I am hooked, after we ate dinner. While I am sitting reading, I decide to take a whiff...nothing. I AM NOT KIDDING. I smelled for like 5 minutes...went in the bathroom and actually used my finger (I know, gross!) But it worked. Swear to God, less than 2 hours ago I squatted to talk to my daughter and smelled awful although the rest of me is clean...it's like you're insides are rotten or something. I cannot believe it. I am a real person and this site has saved my life...I feel like everyone in the world who is too embarrased to talk to their friends about it needs this site...it feels like a family. I will update more when I get about a week away from my period, which is when the itching/odor/irritation is at it's height, and let you know how it is. I will be taking 1 acdp. pill and maybe 2 Folic a day (400 mcg), along with the yougurt and limiting my sugar intake. If it worked this well already, I think I might be BV free in 30 days....thank you so much!!!!!
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Angie (Houston, Tx) on 11/28/2009
★★★☆☆BETTER BUT WITH SIDE EFFECTS
I been suffering from bv for 5 months now and after taking the medication dit never went away so I started taking the folic and acidophilus n its betta but I haven't had my period for 3 months....I'm worried...does bv stop your period? Please send me your feedback. Thank you.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Dianna (Citrus Heights, Ca) on 10/22/2009
Is it possible that you were reinfected by your partner? You said you were ok, had sex and then it came back...sounds like he might have the bacterial infection as well.
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Unexpectedimbalance (Bronx, Ny) on 10/21/2009
★★★★☆
Ok so I am SO happy to have come across this website. I originally noticed the discharge a few months after being on birth control. It must have been the sperm environment messing with mine that cause the imbalance. At first I didn't think much of it, but after a while I started noticing the scent. I went to the GYN and she asked if it was a fishy smell, and I told her no.. it was actually a sweet smell.. Vanilla-ish even. Anywho, she took a sample and checked it out and confirmed it was BV. I was given the prescription for the gel and it worked for like 2 days after I came off it. Back I went and I got the antibiotics.. it helped for like a week or two. Then I started doing my research and used acidophilus pills. I took one in the morning, one at night, and inserted two capsules at night as well. I varied, sometimes taking 2 at night, etc.
Nonetheless, I was happy to notice that I was smelling like my ol' self again. Being happy with the result I had sex with my boyfriend again and it started once more. I was so irritated from that day forth that I figured I may have gotten a yeast infection as well. I bought a different brand of acidophilus and for about a month definitely didn't notice it getting better. That's when I read about the stronger pro-biotic capsules and Folic acid.. Instead of the other acidophilus with only millions of good bacteria, this one has 14 billion good bacteria and different strands as opposed to just one.
I just bought some today and will be taking 2 of the pro-biotic capsules a day, as well as one 800mg Folic acid during the night (or should I take 2?). Also, I will insert one of the pro-biotic capsules at night. Curious on whether the folic acid should be inserted as well??
I will keep you all posted on my progress! I hope this helps, this is a very horrible situation. I've gone through depression, being really self-concious, and also making me shy away from sex. My bf loves me and doesn't care but I CARE! He's away for Grad school right now, which will give sex a break and give me time to heal. Supposedly BV can't be transmitted to a male? Anyone have info on this? If so, should they be taking the folic acid, etc?
We're going to get through this ladies!! By helping each other out!
xoxo
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Fedup (Auburn, Alabama) on 09/11/2009
God bless you and your daughter. I have a 2 year old little girl and a 2 month old little girl and I would die if this happened to them. I can truly imagine the pain you felt having your little girl go through this. I have been suffering for 1-2 yrs already and I just took 2 tablets of 800mcg and I am going to sleep in a few minutes. I will post back and update you all. God bless
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Angie (Houston, Tx) on 09/06/2009
I have been trying acidophilis 10 billion 1pill. Folic acid 400mcg 2pill in da morning along with yogurt....later when I take my shower I douch with water n 1 capsule of acidophilis insted of peroxide it didn't work for the smell so I stopped using it . After the douch I immediatelly open a capsule of acidophilis and with my finger try and get as much as I can inside my vagina.....I used to insert acidophillis I billion pill n it was yellow...I felt that everytime I used dat one in my vagina it just made the smell worst so I'm trying the capsule....I also take 1 folic acid 400mcg and one more acidophillis 10 billion with yogurt.... I do da exact same thing before bed..at fist I didn't have any discharge but since I switched from acidophillis pill to capsule I notice da discharge....da smell was a lot worst too... my main problem is the smell...sometimes its gone but most of the time is there...
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Erika (M, California ) on 09/05/2009
★★★★★
I wasn't sure if this was a real site but after reading hundreds of separate entries, I figured it wouldn't hurt to try what was being suggested. I've suffered from BV for about four years on and off and the antibiotics don't keep the bacteria at bay. It may kill the Bacteria but if I'm not regulating the inside of my body anyway, then of course the BV will come back! So this time I went our and bought a bottle of the Acidiphillis capsules and Folic Acid capsules and took three Acidiphillis, put one right up in there, as gross as that may seem, took one folic acid and went to bed. This morning my discharge was gone, the smell was gone, and I'm taking two Acidiphillis and one folic acid now and one Acidiphillis tonight. This will probably be routine until the pills are gone. Both bottles only cost me around $17! GO GET THESE PILLS. if nothing else, they'll strengthen your heart! :)
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Bnnc (Philadelphia, Pa) on 09/04/2009
★★★★★
I tried the folic acid and acidophilous remedies and a few hours after I took them I didn't have a smell! I took the folic acid and 2 acidophilous pills and inserted one in my vagina. There was a yellow discharge after the second day, but it went away eventually. I don't have to wear pads or pantyliners now to cover the smell!!! I have been battling BV for over 5 years and hated going to the doctor 3-4 times a year for Flagyl. Although it cured it, it would always return. I didn't like having sex with my boyfriend because I was afraid he would smell it and get turned off. I will definitely use this remdey from now on. Thank you for your help!!
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Tonya (Montgomery, Alabama) on 08/27/2009
you are so right Ive had BV now for 13 yrs. And I have had 3 children within that time. And I have always wondered why when I get pregnant I dont have the smell anymore. Our bodies are producing more hormones when we are pregnant and we are also taking prenatal vit. True, true, true. Now that makes you wonder why Dr's don't tell you that all we need are simple vit to keep this away. I have no respect for Dr's anymore they are only out for more money, because they know we are coming back. LOL, not any more.....Tonya from AL
Folic Acid and Acidophilus
Posted by Tonya (Montgomery, Alabama) on 08/27/2009
I would not douche, this is more harm than good. You are washing away your good bacteria that you surely need. Try stopping the acidophilus pills, your body is more than likely rejecting it. And take only the folic acid pills.....Tonya in AL
