Convenient access to Bacterial Vaginosis Treatments With GP24.

Our prescription service costs €25

This service is available to patients anywhere in Republic of Ireland.

Yes - this service is based on the same patient-doctor confidentiality that you would expect in a face-to-face consultation.

If you’re not entirely sure about your condition and have not had a previous prescription, it is recommended that you first chat with our doctor using either our Video Consultation or Phone consultation services first.

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection caused by an imbalance of the natural bacteria in the vagina. Symptoms can include unusual vaginal discharge, odour, itching, or irritation. While BV is generally not serious, it can be uncomfortable and may require treatment to restore the healthy balance of bacteria.

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) develops when the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted. This delicate environment, which is normally slightly acidic, can be upset by a variety of factors, allowing certain bacteria to multiply and cause infection.

Common triggers include:

• Having multiple sexual partners or new sexual partners

• Use of sex toys without proper cleaning

• Frequent vaginal washing or douching, which can remove protective bacteria

• Hormonal changes such as puberty, pregnancy, or menopause

• Vaginal bleeding from heavy or prolonged periods

• Recent antibiotic use, which can affect normal vaginal bacteria

• Smoking, which impacts the vaginal environment

• Certain sexually transmitted infections

• Oral sex, which can introduce bacteria

Understanding these risk factors can help you reduce your chances of developing BV and maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome.

No — Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Men cannot contract BV, so it is not passed to male partners.

However, BV can be transmitted between female sexual partners, and sexual activity can sometimes influence the balance of vaginal bacteria, making infections more likely.

This service is suitable for you if:

• You are female.

• You are 18 years of age or older.

• You have a previously confirmed diagnosis of Bacterial Vaginosis by a doctor, and you are experiencing similar symptoms.

This service is not suitable if:

• You are under 18years of age.

• You are male.

• You have not had a diagnosis and treatment for Bacterial Vaginosis by a doctor before.

• You are having recurrent episodes of Bacterial Vaginosis (more than 4 in the past year).

• You are pregnant/ trying to conceive or breastfeeding.

• You have the following symptoms:

  • Bleeding between periods or after sex.

  • Pain when passing urine, or increased urinary frequency.

  • Blisters or a rash on the skin of the vagina.

  • Unexplained lower abdominal pain for the past 48 hours.

  • Concerned you may have a sexually transmitted infection or have coloured/ green or odorous vaginal discharge.

  • High temperature/ malaise.

• You have a diagnosis or symptoms of vaginal thrush.

Many women with Bacterial Vaginosis may not notice any symptoms and might not realise they have the infection. When symptoms do occur, the most common sign is vaginal discharge, which is typically thin, white or grey, and may have a distinct “fishy” odour.

Symptoms are often more noticeable after sexual activity or during your period, and the odour can sometimes be stronger during intercourse. BV usually does not cause itching, soreness, or significant pain, although very heavy discharge can occasionally cause mild irritation.

BV does not normally cause vaginal bleeding. If you experience bleeding, severe pain, or any unusual symptoms alongside discharge, it’s important to seek an urgent in-person medical examination.

Mild cases of BV can sometimes be treated with over-the-counter remedies, but more persistent or severe infections often need prescription medication. At GP24.ie, our online doctors can prescribe clinically approved antibiotics if suitable for you.

The most common treatment is an oral antibiotic taken twice daily for 7 days, which is highly effective. If you prefer, a vaginal cream can also be requested — simply indicate your preference in your application.

To ensure the medication is available, prescriptions are issued using generic names. Always check your prescription at the pharmacy, as changes cannot be made after collection.

‍ It can be difficult to tell the difference between Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) and vaginal thrush (candida), as both affect vaginal health. However, the two conditions have different causes and treatments:

• Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is caused by an imbalance of natural vaginal bacteria and often produces a thin, white or grey discharge with a fishy odour.

• Vaginal thrush is a fungal infection that typically causes a thick, white discharge accompanied by itching, irritation, or soreness around the vagina or vulva.

‍Because the treatments for BV and thrush are very different, it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis. If you are unsure which condition you have, we recommend:

• Booking an online GP consultation through our service, or

• Visiting your local GP for an in-person assessment.

‍If you’ve been previously diagnosed with vaginal thrush and are experiencing the same symptoms, you can use our Genital Thrush Online Repeat Prescription Service for convenient treatment.

‍ ‍

We provide clinically approved treatments for Bacterial Vaginosis to help restore the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and relieve symptoms.

The first-line treatment is a course of oral antibiotics, usually taken twice daily for seven days. This approach is highly effective in clearing the infection and preventing recurrence.

For those who prefer, we also offer vaginal treatments, such as antibiotic creams, which are applied directly to the vagina. Vaginal creams provide a localised effect, helping to target the infection while reducing systemic absorption.

Our online service ensures that all prescriptions are issued for clinically appropriate, generic medications to maximise availability and maintain safety. Once your prescription is approved, it can be sent electronically to a pharmacy of your choice in Ireland, making it a convenient and discreet option for treatment.

The exact instructions depend on the type of treatment prescribed:

• Oral antibiotics: These are usually taken twice daily for seven days. Take each dose with a full glass of water and preferably after a main meal to reduce the risk of stomach upset.

• Vaginal cream: This is applied directly into the vagina once daily using the provided applicator, typically every night for seven days.

It is essential to complete the full course of treatment, even if your symptoms improve before finishing the medication. Stopping early may allow the infection to return or worsen.

Following these instructions carefully ensures the best chance of fully clearing the infection and preventing recurrence.

Yes — Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) can recur, even after completing a full course of prescription medication. Recurrence is relatively common due to factors that can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.

After treatment, using vaginal probiotics or gels that help maintain a healthy acidic environment in the vagina can reduce the risk of BV returning. These products support the natural bacterial balance and can be purchased from pharmacies for ongoing vaginal health.

Maintaining good vaginal hygiene, avoiding unnecessary douching, and following any advice from your healthcare provider can further help prevent BV from coming back.

Like all medications, treatments for Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.

Oral antibiotics:

• Common side effects include nausea, reduced appetite, and a metallic taste in the mouth.

• It is crucial to avoid alcohol while taking these antibiotics and for 72 hours after completing the course, as combining alcohol can trigger a severe reaction including vomiting, palpitations, and intense headache.

Vaginal antibiotic cream:

• May cause vaginal irritation, itching, or increased discharge.

• Occasionally, some people may experience abdominal cramps or diarrhoea.

• Note: This cream can damage latex condoms and diaphragms, making them unreliable for contraception or STI protection during treatment and for up to 5 days after use.

Always read the patient information leaflet included with your medication for a full list of possible side effects.

If you experience severe or concerning symptoms, stop the medication and seek medical advice promptly. Our doctors at GP24 are also available to provide guidance and support throughout your treatment.

Stop taking the medication and seek medical advice immediately. You can also contact us for follow-up support or guidance from one of our GPs.

Complete an Online Questionnaire: Fill out a secure, confidential medical assessment form detailing your symptoms and health history

Medical Review: An Irish-registered doctor will review your information to determine if treatment is appropriate for you

Prescription Issuance: If suitable, a prescription will be sent directly to your chosen Irish pharmacy via secure Healthmail

Yes. To ensure your safety, you’ll need to complete a confidential health questionnaire, which will be reviewed by a Doctor before any prescription is issued.

Your medical information is reviewed only by Irish Medical Council Registered Doctors and is handled in line with GDPR and Irish data protection laws.

Your prescription will be sent electronically via the Healthmail system to the Irish pharmacy of your choice - you can nominate any pharmacy in Ireland to receive your prescription

Once your medical questionnaire is submitted, prescriptions are typically issued within 24 hours.

(Please note this may vary on weekends)

We aim to make your online prescription experience smooth and transparent.

• You can request a cancellation or refund within 4 hours of making your purchase.

• Once this period has passed, and if our doctors have already issued your prescription, refunds can no longer be provided.

If your prescription request is not approved because our doctors believe it is unsafe or medically unsuitable, you will:

• Be offered a safe alternative, if available, or

• Receive a full refund to your original payment card (processed within 1–10 working days).

If our doctors feel that your request requires a full consultation before a prescription can be safely issued, we’ll offer one of the following:

• A discount of the fee already paid for the prescription service towards an online video consultation with one of our GPs, or

• A refund if our doctors feel that an online consultation would not be suitable for your medical needs. In such cases, we will recommend that you visit your local GP instead.

Processing Refunds

All refunds are returned to the original card used for payment and typically take 1–10 working days to process, depending on your bank.