FAQs
Frequently asked questions about bacterial vaginosis (BV)
A BV infection can be inconvenient and embarrassing at times. You may not be sure if you have BV or thrush, so it’s important to ask the right questions so that you can find the best treatment information.
BV, along with its symptoms and other personal health issues, can be difficult to talk about, so you may find these frequently asked questions and answers handy.
It’s important to always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you are concerned about your health or if you have any further questions.
FAQs about BV
‘Fishy’ vaginal odour is the BV symptom that usually sets it apart from other common vaginal infections, such as thrush. If you have symptoms, talk to your pharmacist – they will guide you on the best treatment for you.
There are a number of different conditions that may cause vaginal discharge. In the case of BV, most women experience a thin, watery grey/white discharge that is accompanied by a ‘fishy’ odour. In contrast, women suffering from thrush often report a thick, white discharge, usually accompanied by irritation and itching. If you are experiencing symptoms, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
Bacterial vaginosis, or ‘BV’, is a common condition caused by an imbalance between the ‘good’ bacteria and the ‘bad’ (BV-causing) bacteria that naturally occur in the vagina.
Normally, the vagina is slightly acidic, which is the perfect environment for the good bacteria to live and keep things normal. However, a range of factors can lead to depletion of the good bacteria, and the vagina can become less acidic. In this environment, the ‘bad’ bacteria thrive, affecting the overall health of the vagina and causing the BV symptoms.
Despite the fact that thrush is more well-known than bacterial vaginosis, BV is actually more common in women of childbearing age. There are a number of distinct differences between BV and thrush.
BV is caused by an imbalance in the naturally occurring bacteria inside the vagina. Thrush, however, is caused by an overgrowth of yeast called Candida.
The signs and symptoms of BV and thrush are quite different. Click here to find out more.
BV is associated with a characteristic ‘fishy’ vaginal odour and an abnormal greyish-white, thin vaginal discharge. Other common vaginal infections may be associated with intense itching or painful urination, and clumpy or frothy discharge. If you are unsure whether you have BV, or suspect you have a vaginal infection other than BV, please see your doctor. Also see your doctor if you consider that you may be at risk of a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI), if your symptoms persist or recur, or your condition worsens, as these symptoms may be indicative of another infection including an STI. See your doctor before using the product if you are diabetic, pregnant or breastfeeding (or plan to be).
If you do have BV, treating a male partner of an infected woman does not appear to prevent recurrences so is not routinely recommended. To prevent BV from recurring, you could consider avoiding sexual contact temporarily, or, if you have sex with a new partner, making sure he uses a condom. Always discuss your medical condition with your doctor or pharmacist.
It can be common for bacterial vaginosis to come back again after treatment.
See your doctor if symptoms persist after 7 days or recurs within 2 weeks of finishing treatment.
FAQs about Fleurstat BVgel
Fleurstat is a bacterial attachment blocker in a bio-adhesive gel. Fleurstat works by disrupting the attachment of bad bacteria to the vaginal wall. This allows good bacteria to replenish, relieving symptoms and helping to normalize vaginal pH.
Apply one applicator full (approx. 5g) of Fleurstat BVgel into the vagina once daily, preferably at bedtime, for 7 days. It is important to complete the 7 day treatment course.
You do not need a prescription for Fleurstat BVgel. Ask at your pharmacy if Fleurstat is right for you.
Fleurstat is an innovative, clinically proven treatment that provides relief of symptoms and starts to work within 24 hours.
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or are planning to become pregnant or breastfeed, seek the advice of your doctor first.
Yes, you can use Fleurstat when menstruating.
No. However, it is recommended to delay administering Fleurstat if you anticipate sexual activity will occur around bedtime. Administer Fleurstat after any sexual activity is complete.
The majority of women will likely not experience side effects. However, a small percentage have reported headache, itching or burning around the vaginal area, abdominal pain, urinary tract infection and thrush.
Fleurstat is not known or expected to interfere with medications because it is not absorbed into the bloodstream following topical vaginal application. Use of other vaginally applied products containing polyquaterniums, which are found in some personal lubricants, should be avoided while using Fleurstat, as polyquaterniums have been shown to be incompatible with astodrimer sodium, the active ingredient of Fleurstat. No other product interaction studies have been conducted.
It is recommended to apply Fleurstat at bedtime.
Yes. Fleurstat has been shown to not compromise the integrity or affect the dimensions of condoms. However, it is recommended to delay administering Fleurstat if you anticipate sexual activity will occur around bedtime. Administer Fleurstat after any sexual activity is complete.
Fleurstat is available from pharmacies without prescription. Ask at your pharmacy if Fleurstat is right for you.
If you experience recurrent BV (typically 3 or more episodes in a 12-month period), you can use Fleurstat BVgel when you don’t have symptoms, including abnormal vaginal odour and discharge, helping to maintain normal vaginal flora balance.
