FAQs
Frequently asked questions about bacterial vaginosis (BV) and VivaGel Use:
Suffering from bacterial vaginosis (BV) can be inconvenient and embarrassing at times. You may not be sure
if you have BV or thrush, so it’s important to ask questions so that you can find the right treatment information.
Bacterial vaginosis, its symptoms and other personal health issues can be difficult to talk about, which is why we have created this helpful FAQ section. It’s important to remember that no online source of information can replace the knowledge and advice of your healthcare professional, so if you are unsure about anything, talk to them as soon as possible.
‘Fishy’ vaginal odour is a characteristic BV symptom that usually sets it apart from other common vaginal infections, such as thrush. If you have symptoms, talk to your pharmacist – they will guide you on the best treatment for you. See a doctor if you are diabetic or pregnant/breastfeeding (or plan to be).
There are a number of different conditions that may cause vaginal discharge. In the case of bacterial vaginosis, most women experience a thin, watery grey/white discharge that is accompanied by a ‘fishy’ odour. In contrast, women suffering from thrush often report a thick white discharge, similar to cottage cheese, usually accompanied by irritation and itching.
You can apply VivaGel BV at any time that is convenient for your lifestyle. We recommend using VivaGel BV at bedtime to minimize any lifestyle impact.
For the treatment of BV, the recommended dose is one applicator full (5g), applied vaginally once daily, preferably at bedtime, for 7 days. It is important to complete all 7 doses, even if your symptoms go away. There may be a small amount of gel left in the tube after 7 days.For the prevention of BV, the recommended dose is one applicator full (5g), applied vaginally once every second day.
The re-usable applicator can be washed after each dose of 5g VivaGel® BV is administered. To wash, pull the plunger out towards the end of the applicator, and rinse both the plunger and the applicator with [luke-warm] water. Leave the applicator and plunger out to dry prior to next use. Insert the plunger back in applicator and re-use for next dose.
No. However, it is recommended to delay administering VivaGel BV if you anticipate sexual activity will occur around bedtime. Administer VivaGel BV after any sexual activity is complete.
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or are planning to become pregnant or breastfeed whilst receiving treatment for BV, seek the advice of your doctor first.
The majority of women will likely not experience side effects. However, a small percentage reported headache, itching or burning around the vaginal area, abdominal pain, urinary tract infection and candidiasis (thrush).
VivaGel BV is not known or expected to interfere with medications because it is not absorbed into the bloodstream following topical vaginal application.
Use of other vaginally applied products containing polyquaterniums, which are found in some personal lubricants, should be avoided while using VivaGel BV, as polyquaterniums have been shown to be incompatible with astodrimer sodium, the active ingredient. No other product interaction studies have been conducted.
Yes, you can use VivaGel BV when menstruating.
Yes, VivaGel BV has been shown to not compromise the integrity or affect the dimensions of condoms. However, it is recommended to delay administering VivaGel BV if you anticipate sexual activity will occur around bedtime. Administer VivaGel BV after any sexual activity is complete.
VivaGel BV should be stored below 30°C. Do not refrigerate or freeze VivaGel BV.