[36F] Experiencing persistent vaginal itching during BV treatment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, you may still be experiencing symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis (BV). BV is an infection caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina. It's common for symptoms to persist for a while even after starting antibiotics.

• Metronidazole is a common treatment for BV. It's important to finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if symptoms start to improve, to ensure that the infection is completely cleared.
• The redness and itchiness on your labia could be due to the BV or could be a reaction to the antibiotics. It's also possible that you have a yeast infection, which can sometimes occur after antibiotic treatment because the antibiotics can disrupt the balance of yeast and bacteria in the vagina.

What you can do

1. Continue taking your antibiotics as prescribed. It's important to finish the entire course, even if you start to feel better.
2. Avoid scratching the itchy areas as much as possible. This can cause further irritation and could potentially lead to a secondary infection.
3. Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing to allow air to keep the area dry. Avoid tight clothing as it can cause further irritation.
4. Avoid using any scented products in the genital area, including soaps and laundry detergents, as these can cause further irritation.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your symptoms worsen or do not improve after finishing your course of antibiotics.
• You develop a fever or severe lower abdominal pain.
• You notice a significant increase in vaginal discharge or a change in the color, consistency, or smell of the discharge.
• You experience pain during sexual intercourse or urination.

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care.