Bacterial Vaginosis
– Common but Treatable
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is very common, and most women will experience it once or several times during their lives. The most common symptom is a vaginal discharge with a strong or unpleasant. BV is usually treated with antibiotics or antibacterial medicines. However, it often comes back after treatment because these medicines can also affect the beneficial, protective bacteria in the vagina.
What happens in the body with BV?
There are always bacteria and microorganisms on and inside the body. This environment is called the microbiome and is a natural part of our health. The vagina also has its own microbiome – a mix of bacteria and microorganisms.
A healthy vaginal microbiome is balanced, and the most common and important bacteria are called lactobacilli. These bacteria protect the vagina by making it slightly acidic, which stops other, harmful bacteria from growing.
With BV, the lactobacilli become fewer or less effective, allowing other bacteria to grow. The exact cause is not known, but BV can sometimes be linked to changes such as pregnancy, a new sexual partner, or more frequent exercise or swimming.
Symptoms of BV
- The most common symptom is a strong, fishy vaginal odor.
- Discharge may be thin and grayish or yellow in color, but usually not heavier than normal.
- Some women feel soreness or burning around the vaginal opening.
- Symptoms often seem stronger after your period or after vaginal sex without a condom.
- Some women have BV without any symptoms at all.
Treatment of BV
BV is usually treated with antibiotics or antibacterial/antiseptic medicines, taken as tablets or vaginal gels. These treatments often affect both harmful and protective bacteria, which is why BV can come back.
pHyph – antibiotic-free treatment
pHyph is a new, antibiotic-free and over-the-counter treatment for BV, recently approved in Europe. It works by lowering the vaginal pH and strengthening the vaginal microbiome, helping the good bacteria thrive.
pHyph works with your natural balance
- Treats bacterial vaginosis
- Effectively reduces unpleasant odor
- Strengthens the vaginal microbiome for long-term health
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pHyph is not yet available in pharmacies, but we are working hard to launch it as soon as possible. If you want updates, please sign up for our newsletter:
Frequently asked questions
What is BV?
BV is very common, and most women will experience it one or more times. There are always bacteria in the vagina. pHyph treats BV by supporting the growth of protective lactobacilli, relieving symptoms and helping long-term vaginal health.
How is BV treated?
Usually with antibiotics, either tablets or vaginal gels.
Soon, pHyph will be launched in Europe as an antibiotic free, safe and effective treatment option.
What can cause BV?
BV usually happens when the balance of bacteria changes. This can be affected by things like antibiotics, hormone changes, or sex.
What should I do if I think I have BV?
Contact your healthcare provider for correct diagnosis and treatment.
What are the symptoms?
The most common symptom is a fishy vaginal odor. Discharge can be thin and grayish to yellow. It usually isn’t heavier than normal. Some women may feel soreness or burning.
Does it go away on its own?
Sometimes BV goes away without treatment, but it’s best to get a proper diagnosis and advice from a healthcare professional.
Is BV contagious?
BV is not a sexually transmitted infection and cannot be passed on. However, having BV can make it easier to get other infections, so it’s important to seek care if your symptoms get worse or don’t go away.
Where and when will pHyph be available?
pHyph has been developed and is owned by Gedea Biotech, based in Lund, Sweden. Gedea is currently engaged in active discussions with several established pharmaceutical partners for the launch of pHyph in its first markets, anticipated in 2026. In the meantime, you are most welcome to subscribe for our newsletter and we will keep you posted.