Antibiotics are the go-to treatment for vaginal infections like bacterial vaginosis (BV) but they’re far from the perfect solution. Many women find themselves stuck in a frustrating cycle of temporary relief, annoying side effects and recurring infections.
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Antibiotics are the go-to treatment for vaginal infections like bacterial vaginosis (BV) but they’re far from the perfect solution. Many women find themselves stuck in a frustrating cycle of temporary relief, annoying side effects and recurring infections.
So, are antibiotics really the best answer? In this blog, we explore why antibiotics don’t always work, how they impact your vaginal microbiome, and why alternative treatments, like light therapy, could offer new hope for the future of vaginal health.
Antibiotics were developed in the 1920s and completely transformed medical history. When it comes to vaginal health, antibiotics are far from an ideal solution – yet they remain our only option.
Infections like bacterial vaginosis (BV) usually require antibiotic treatment. However, antibiotic side effects can have a seriously negative impact on quality of life.
Side effects may include:
If you experience any other side effects like itchiness, rash, coughing, wheezing or a tight chest, this could be a sign of an allergic reaction and you should seek medical support straight away.
But perhaps the most significant side effect of antibiotics is the impact they have on your vaginal microbiome.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) affects up to 29% of women globally. It happens when the natural balance of bacteria in the vaginal microbiome shifts, allowing harmful bacteria to overgrow. Antibiotics like metronidazole and clindamycin are the standard treatment for BV, but more than 60% of women experience BV recurrence within months of treatment.
The vaginal microbiome relies on Lactobacilli, beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy pH balance. Antibiotics wipe out both harmful bacteria and these protective bacteria, damaging your defence mechanism and making reinfection more likely.
Antibiotic resistance happens when bacteria evolve to withstand antibiotics. Over time, BV-causing bacteria become less responsive to treatment.
Some bacteria secrete a sticky substance that helps them stick to the vaginal wall better, forming a biofilm that shields them from antibiotics. This means antibiotics can’t always fully eliminate the bad infection, allowing it to return further down the line.
If you’ve ever had a yeast infection after antibiotic treatment, you’re not alone. Here’s why it happens:
If you need antibiotic treatment, you can help reduce your risk of a yeast infection by:
Antibiotics are the most common option, but they aren’t the only ones out there. Researchers are exploring alternative treatments for vaginal infections. Always speak to a healthcare professional before trying any new treatments to ensure it’s the right fit for you.
Probiotics, especially Lactobacillus strains, can help restore the vaginal microbiome. Some studies show they can help prevent infection by supporting a healthy vaginal microbiome but the results are inconsistent. Probiotics might be a helpful supplement, but they aren’t a guaranteed replacement for antibiotics.
Vaginal acidifiers, like lactic acid, can help rebalance the vaginal pH. However, their effectiveness varies from person to person. Overuse can also cause irritation, making them a less reliable long-term solution.
Boric acid is known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties. It’s sometimes used to treat infections when antibiotics fail. Boric acid can eliminate harmful bacteria but is not without risks. Incorrect use can cause irritation and more serious complications.
One of the most exciting innovations? Light therapy.
Light therapy is emerging as a promising new alternative to antibiotics for vaginal infections and UVISA is leading the way.
Ultra Violet and Blue Light target harmful bacteria in the vagina without harming the healthy bacteria. Unlike antibiotics, light therapy doesn’t disrupt the vaginal microbiome, reducing the risk of repeat infections.
While research is ongoing, early studies suggest that light therapy could be a game-changer – especially for women struggling with recurrent vaginal infections. By targeting only harmful bacteria and protecting the vaginal microbiome, light therapy offers a promising new solution without the side effects.
At UVISA, we’re developing a light therapy device designed to help women break free from the cycle of recurrent BV and yeast infections. Because vaginal health shouldn’t have to be a constant battle.
For too long, women have been stuck in a cycle of antibiotics, side effects, and recurring infections. While antibiotics remain essential for certain conditions, they aren’t a perfect solution for vaginal health.
New innovations like light therapy could provide a safer, more effective way to treat BV, yeast infections, and other vaginal imbalances — without the risks of antimicrobial resistance.
Want to learn more about light therapy for vaginal health? Stay tuned for updates on the latest research and breakthroughs.
