A Guide to Applying Creams for Bacterial Vagina

Bacterial vaginosis is a common condition. It is a bacterial infection of the vagina and is caused due to the overgrowth of normal bacteria. The main symptom is a vaginal discharge, often with a noticeable fishy smell. The infection may clear without treatment, or it can be treated with antibiotic creams. Such creams are applied into the vagina using an applicator. Creams for Bacterial Vagina are also available as a skin preparation for acne treatment and as capsules to take by mouth to treat serious infections.

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start using creams, your doctor must know: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding or if you have any bowel issues that cause you to have diarrhea or any allergic reaction to skin preparation or complementary and herbal medicines.

How to use

Before starting the treatment, read the manufacturer’s printed information leaflet from inside the pack.The manufacturer’s leaflet will give you more information about the cream, and it will also explain how to use the cream and applicator. Apply the cream exactly as your doctor tells you to. It is for use in the vagina only. Use one applicator, approximately 5 grams of cream in the vagina at bedtime. Your doctor will tell you how many days you should use the cream for a course of treatment that usually lasts for 3-7 days. If you forget to use the cream, use it as soon as you remember. If you do not remember until the following day, use the creams for the bacterial vagina as usual for your next dose; never double up the amount of cream you use. Use the cream for the correct number of days in total.

How to fill the applicator and use the cream

Remove the cap from the tube. Attach one of the disposable applicators to the tube -the applicator will screw onto the tube. Squeeze the tube gently to fill the applicator. When the plunger on the applicator stops moving, the applicator is full. Unscrew the applicator from the tube, and replace the cap onto the tube. Lie on your back and insert the applicator into your vagina. Insert it as far as you feel comfortable. Gently push on the plunger of the applicator to empty the cream into your vagina. Then remove the applicator and wrap it in toilet paper, and disposed of in a waste bin. Wash your hands afterward.

Getting the most from your treatment

Even if you feel your infection has cleared up, keep using the creams for bacterial vagina until the course is finished or unless you are told to stop by your doctor. This is to prevent the infection from coming back. Sexual intercourse during treatment for vaginal infection is to be avoided. Also, the cream can cause damage to condoms and caps (diaphragms), so you should not rely on these for contraception during treatment or for 3 days after using the cream.