Key takeaways
- Home remedies that may help manage bacterial vaginosis include taking probiotics, using boric acid suppositories, practicing safe hygiene, and using barrier protection during sex. However, research on home remedies is limited.
- While bacterial vaginosis sometimes resolves on its own, antibiotics are the primary treatment. A person may wish to contact a healthcare professional if they are pregnant or experience severe symptoms like fever or intense pain.
Bacterial vaginosis is an infection caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina, often leading to vaginal discharge with a
Researchers estimate that around 29% to 49% of people with a vagina in the United States have bacterial vaginosis, making it one of the most common infections.
In some cases, bacterial vaginosis resolves on its own without treatment. Some home remedies may also help rebalance the vaginal microbiota, thereby relieving symptoms.
However, if symptoms do not improve with home remedies, a person may consider speaking with a healthcare professional about medical treatment, which may include antibiotics.
This article explores home remedies for preventing and treating bacterial vaginosis.
The vagina is home to a complex colony of organisms that maintain vaginal health and chemical pH. When vaginal pH or bacteria change, the vagina is more vulnerable to infections.
The vagina is a self-cleaning organ that does not require douches, soaps, or perfumes. In fact, the use of these products can alter vaginal pH and increase the risk of bacterial vaginosis.
To reduce the risk of developing or worsening bacterial vaginosis, the following may help:
- avoiding scented vaginal products
- abstaining from douche usage
- washing the vagina with water only
- wearing breathable cotton underwear
- keeping the vaginal area dry
- washing the hands before touching the vagina
Probiotics help the body grow beneficial bacteria that can fight the bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis. A 2019 review found that probiotic therapy might have both short- and long-term benefits in managing bacterial vaginosis.
People may wish to take probiotic supplements. However, natural probiotics can also support the bacterial colony that keeps the vagina healthy. These include:
Several compounds in garlic have natural antibacterial properties.
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However, it is important to note that very limited research has specifically assessed the potential benefits of garlic for bacterial vaginosis. Also, healthcare professionals recommend that people never place garlic or garlic products in or around their vagina due to possible side effects, such as toxicity.
Vaginal suppositories containing boric acid may help treat bacterial vaginosis.
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However, the authors of both studies concluded that further research is needed to fully assess how boric acid contributes to treatment.
Boric acid is toxic if people take it orally. A person should only ever use this product as per instructions.
According to older research, limited anecdotal claims suggest that tea tree oil may help treat bacterial vaginosis. However, there is no scientific evidence that tea tree oil or products containing it can help with the condition.
Tea tree oil treatments may cause allergic reactions in some people and are not safe for use during pregnancy. People considering purchasing tea tree oil treatments should always consult a doctor first.
Some research suggests that the acetic and lactic acids in apple cider vinegar may help reduce vaginal pH, which could, in theory, reduce the harmful bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis.
However, the researchers note that simply lowering vaginal pH may not be sufficient to manage the infection, and no studies have examined the direct effects of apple cider vinegar on bacterial vaginosis.
Home treatments may benefit some people, but should not replace evidence-based treatment plans. A person wishing to use home remedies should speak with a doctor before doing so.
The exact cause of bacterial vaginosis is not known, but it is more common in sexually active people, according to the
Sexual practices that disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina may play a role in the development of bacterial vaginosis. Strategies that may help lower the risk include:
- wearing barrier protection, such as condoms, for all forms of penetrative sex
- changing condoms or washing the penis with soap and water before transitioning between anal and vaginal sex
- urinating immediately after intercourse, then rinsing the vagina and vulva with clear water
- sanitizing sex toys after using them
People who think they have bacterial vaginosis should either abstain from sex or practice sex with barrier protection until the infection is gone.
Bacterial vaginosis rarely causes severe symptoms. However, anyone who suspects they have a vaginal infection should contact a medical professional, especially if:
- they are pregnant
- they experience other symptoms, such as burning sensation during urination, intense pain, blood discharge, or fever
- home remedies do not work
In most cases, a doctor can quickly diagnose bacterial vaginosis. A course of antibiotics should clear up the infection. These antibiotics rarely produce significant side effects.
Taking probiotics, garlic supplements, or vaginal suppositories containing boric acid may help treat bacterial vaginosis at home. However, more research is needed on the effectiveness of these remedies.
Beverages high in probiotics, such as kefir and kombucha, may help treat bacterial vaginosis, but research is limited.
Bacterial vaginosis is usually curable with prescription antibiotics that can help readjust the balance of bacteria in the vagina.
A person with bacterial vaginosis should clean their vagina and vulva with warm water and a gentle, mild soap. Douches are not recommended.
The primary treatment course for bacterial vaginosis is antibiotics. However, some people may wish to treat the condition at home.
Options for home treatments include practicing safe hygiene, using barrier protection during intercourse, and taking probiotic supplements.
Bacterial vaginosis is a common condition and typically is not cause for concern. However, anyone experiencing symptoms of bacterial vaginosis should always contact a medical professional as a first step.