Version July 2025
Please read the Disclaimer at the end of this page.
What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
You came to the ED for bacterial vaginosis. This is an infection in the vagina that can cause bad-smelling vaginal discharge. If you have bacterial vaginosis, you have a higher chance of catching other infections that are spread through sex.
Bacterial vaginosis is treated with antibiotics. It is important to finish them, even if you start to feel better.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also do the following:
●Call your regular doctor and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to.
●Do not have sex until you finish the antibiotics, or use condoms if you do have sex.
●To lower your chances of getting bacterial vaginosis again:
•Use condoms every time you have sex.
•Do not douche or rinse your vagina.
•Do not share sex toys. Clean them between each use.
●Quit smoking, if you smoke. This can also help lower the risk of bacterial vaginosis. Your doctor or nurse can help.
When should I get emergency help?
●Return to the ED if you:
•Have severe belly pain
•Have worse vaginal pain, even though you are taking antibiotics
•Are bleeding from your vagina, but are not having your period
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if:
●You have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills.
●Your vaginal discharge becomes worse.
●Your vaginal discharge does not return to normal after you finish the antibiotics.
●You have new or worsening symptoms.
Patient education: Bacterial vaginosis (The Basics)
Patient education: Vaginal discharge (The Basics)
Patient education: Bacterial vaginosis (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: Vaginal discharge in adult women (Beyond the Basics)
