What is the primary treatment for bacterial vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is primarily treated with antibiotics because it is caused by an imbalance in the normal bacterial flora of the vagina, specifically an overgrowth of certain types of bacteria, rather than a fungal infection or hormonal issues. The antibiotics work to restore the normal bacterial balance by eliminating the pathogenic bacteria associated with BV.

Metronidazole and clindamycin are commonly prescribed antibiotics for this condition, either taken orally or applied topically. The use of antibiotics specifically targets the bacteria that contribute to the overgrowth and the symptoms associated with BV, such as discharge, odor, and discomfort.

Antifungal medications are not suitable for treating bacterial vaginosis since they are designed to address fungal infections, such as yeast infections, which have different underlying causes and symptoms. Hormonal therapy typically addresses issues related to hormonal imbalances and is not indicated in the treatment of BV. Similarly, topical creams are not the primary treatment modality for BV, as they do not effectively target the bacterial imbalance that characterizes the condition. Therefore, antibiotics are recognized as the first-line treatment for bacterial vaginosis.