By the way, doctor: What can I do about strep B vaginitis?
Group B streptococcus is not usually a cause of vaginitis. Even when strep B is found in a laboratory culture of vaginal discharge, it's hard to tell whether it's the culprit or just an innocent bystander, since it harmlessly colonizes the vagina in up to about one-third of women. If strep B is causing the symptoms, then a course of amoxicillin would be the right treatment. The fact that your discharge returned after taking amoxicillin suggests that the infection wasn't completely treated — or that other factors may be contributing to your symptoms. One possible cause is bacterial vaginosis — a condition in which there is an overgrowth of certain unhealthy bacteria, often causing a fishy odor. This condition may respond to amoxicillin, but metronidazole and clindamycin are more likely to cure it.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
