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Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common bacterial infection or condition associated with uncomfortable symptoms such as itching/burning, a thin white or gray vaginal discharge, elevated vaginal pH, and/or a strong fish like odor. It is often tested with an in-office swab and treated with an oral or cream antibiotic called metronidazole. While this treatment may work for some women, others may face recurrent BV and limited treatment options. This is where garlic may be able to help.
How does garlic work?
For those interested in an alternative or natural remedy for bacterial vaginosis, a clinical trial aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of oral garlic tablets compared to oral metronidazole. Garlic is thought to have antibacterial properties due to a compound it contains called allein. Allein turns to allicin once garlic is crushed which works to disrupt the formation of bacteria.
Trial results:
In this trial, patients were assigned to take 500mg garlic tablets twice a day with meals for seven days. 70% of women receiving garlic showed clinical improvement compared to 48.3% of women receiving metronidazole. The study also showed successful treatment was found in 63.3% of women receiving garlic and 48.3% of women receiving metronidazole. It is important to note these results were not considered statistically significant and more robust research is needed. However, due to the promising results, it may be worth initiating a conversation about this treatment option with your doctor.
Testing vaginal pH at home:
Many women with bacterial vaginosis are aware when things may feel off. It is important to schedule an appointment with your doctor to confirm your diagnosis, but a quick way to check if your vaginal pH is off is through the use of vaginal pH strips. A vaginal pH >4.5 may indicate bacterial vaginosis.
Treating recurrent BV can be frustrating and may require some out of the box thinking or natural remedies. If you’re still struggling with BV despite various treatments, it is important to rule out other conditions that may be contributing to recurrence or symptoms such as aerobic vaginitis or mycoplasma.
*Studies/references are linked and highlighted throughout the article
*Not medical advice, please consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements or products