Metronidazole Gel for Bacterial Vaginosis

Yes. Metronidazole 0.75% vaginal gel is one of the treatments recommended by NICE for bacterial vaginosis. It works as well as metronidazole tablets for most women.

If you would prefer to take tablets, metronidazole tablets for BV are another option.

Complete our online consultation for a clinical assessment by one of our experienced prescribers to find out whether you’re eligible for a prescription to buy metronidazole 0.75% vaginal gel online.

BV usually causes a thin, white or grey discharge with a strong fishy smell, but often no itching. Thrush usually causes a thick, white discharge, like cottage cheese, with itching and soreness but no strong smell. BV is treated with an antibiotic, while thrush needs an antifungal treatment.

Zidoval is a brand name for metronidazole 0.75% vaginal gel. They contain the same active ingredient and work in the same way.

You cannot buy metronidazole gel over the counter at a pharmacy as it is a prescription-only medication. This means you must have a prescription from a licensed prescriber to buy metronidazole gel for BV.

If you think you have bacterial vaginosis, you can fill out our simple online questionnaire to start your consultation with one of our UK-registered prescribers. Then, if prescribed, you can buy metronidazole 0.75% vaginal gel through our online pharmacy with fast UK delivery.

You can order metronidazole 0.75% vaginal gel through an online pharmacy after a clinical assessment with a registered prescriber. A prescriber will only prescribe metronidazole gel if it’s clinically appropriate for you and your situation.

Do not buy antibiotics from pharmacies or websites that do not require a consultation with a medical professional.

At My Chemist Plus, you can have a free consultation with a UK-registered, experienced prescriber for metronidazole gel. If prescribed, you can order metronidazole gel online with fast UK-wide delivery. Fill out a quick health questionnaire to get started.

No. BV is not a sexually transmitted infection, so male partners don’t need treatment. If you have a female partner, she may want to get checked if she has symptoms.

Always follow your prescriber’s instructions and the leaflet in the pack, and complete the full course even if your symptoms clear.

• Use one applicator of gel inside your vagina once a day at bedtime, for 5 nights in a row.
• Fill the applicator from the tube, lie on your back with your knees bent, gently insert the applicator and push the plunger to release the gel.
• Use a new applicator each night and wash your hands before and after.
• Avoid sex while you use the gel, and avoid tampons, douches and other vaginal products.

If you forget a dose, use it as soon as you remember, unless it’s nearly time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at the same time to make up for a forgotten dose.

The usual dose is one full applicator (about 5g of gel) once a day at bedtime for 5 nights. It’s very important you follow your prescriber’s advice and finish the full course.

It’s best not to use the gel during your period, as the flow can wash the medicine away. If your period is due, tell your prescriber during your consultation.

Many women notice their symptoms improve within a few days. If your symptoms have not cleared by the end of your course, speak to a GP or sexual health clinic.

Only a small amount of metronidazole is absorbed from the gel, but it’s best to avoid alcohol while you use it and for 48 hours after your last dose as a precaution.

If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, tell your prescriber during your consultation. BV in pregnancy should be checked, so you may be advised to see your GP or midwife. Your prescriber will advise whether treatment through our service is right for you.

No. Metronidazole gel does not affect the contraceptive pill or other hormonal contraception.

Tell your prescriber about all medicines you take. In particular, mention:

• Warfarin or other blood thinners
• Lithium
• Phenytoin or phenobarbital, used for epilepsy
• Ciclosporin
• Disulfiram

BV comes back in many women within a few months of treatment. To lower your risk:

• Use water and plain soap to wash your genital area, and have showers instead of baths
• Do not use douches, vaginal washes or perfumed products
• Do not use strong detergents to wash your underwear

If you get BV more than twice in 6 months, speak to your GP or a sexual health clinic.

Speak to a GP or sexual health clinic if you:

• Have pain in your lower tummy or pelvis, or a high temperature
• Have unusual vaginal bleeding, such as after sex or between periods
• Notice sores, blisters or lumps around your genitals
• Think you could have a sexually transmitted infection
• Are pregnant and have unusual discharge

These symptoms need to be checked in person rather than waiting for a delivery.