What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) in Children

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for bacterial vaginosis (BV), you will usually receive guidance on treatment and how to care for the affected area. BV is an infection caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina and can cause symptoms like unusual discharge or odor. Your healthcare provider may suggest medications, often antibiotics, to help clear the infection. It's important to follow the instructions carefully and complete the full course of any prescribed medicine. You may also get advice on keeping the area clean and avoiding irritants. If symptoms improve, you might not need another visit, but if they worsen or new symptoms appear, a follow-up in person may be necessary. Telemedicine can help you get quick advice and treatment, but some situations require hands-on care. Always watch for warning signs like fever, severe pain, or unusual bleeding, and seek immediate medical help if these occur.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Fever above 38°C (100.4°F) — seek urgent medical care.
• Severe lower abdominal or pelvic pain — contact healthcare provider immediately.
• Heavy vaginal bleeding or blood clots — get emergency medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and medical history related to BV.
• Providing advice on treatment and self-care.
• Prescribing antibiotics if appropriate.
• Answering questions about BV and its management.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical pelvic exams.
• Collecting vaginal samples for lab tests.
• Treating severe or complicated infections.
• Managing symptoms that require emergency care.

What to Expect Right After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine visit, your healthcare provider will usually explain the treatment plan. This often includes taking antibiotics to fight the infection. You may receive a prescription electronically or be told where to get the medicine. The provider will also give you tips on how to care for the vaginal area, such as avoiding scented soaps or bubble baths that can cause irritation.

How to Take Care of Yourself at Home

To help your body heal, keep the area clean and dry. Wear loose, cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing. Avoid swimming or using tampons until the infection clears. Follow all instructions about taking medicine, even if symptoms improve quickly. This helps prevent the infection from coming back.

When to Seek More Help

If your symptoms do not get better within a week, or if they get worse, you should contact your healthcare provider again. Also, if you develop new symptoms like fever, severe pain, or heavy bleeding, seek medical care immediately. Sometimes, BV can lead to other problems if not treated properly.

What Telemedicine Can and Cannot Do for BV

Telemedicine can help by allowing you to talk with a healthcare provider quickly, get advice, and receive prescriptions without leaving home. However, telemedicine cannot perform physical exams or lab tests. If your provider needs to examine you or run tests, they may ask you to see a healthcare professional in person.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your visit, write down your symptoms, when they started, and any medicines you are taking. Have a list of questions ready. Make sure you have a private, quiet space with good internet or phone connection. This helps the visit go smoothly and ensures your provider can give the best advice.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a private, quiet place for your telemedicine visit.
• Ensure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) is charged and connected to the internet.
• Write down your symptoms, including when they started and any changes.
• List any medicines or supplements you are currently taking.
• Prepare questions you want to ask your healthcare provider.

After your tele-visit

• Fill and take prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed.
• Keep the vaginal area clean and dry; wear loose cotton underwear.
• Avoid irritants like scented soaps, bubble baths, and tight clothing.
• Monitor symptoms daily and note any changes or side effects.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop.
• Attend any recommended follow-up visits, either virtual or in person.

FAQs

What is bacterial vaginosis (BV)?

BV is an infection caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina. It can cause symptoms like unusual discharge, odor, itching, or burning.

Can BV be treated through telemedicine?

Yes, telemedicine can be used to discuss symptoms, provide advice, and prescribe medicine. However, some cases may need an in-person exam or tests.

What should I do if my symptoms do not improve after treatment?

If symptoms do not get better within about a week or worsen, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Is BV contagious?

BV is not considered a sexually transmitted infection, but sexual activity can affect the balance of bacteria in the vagina.

Can BV cause problems if left untreated?

If untreated, BV may increase the risk of other infections or complications, especially in young children or during pregnancy.

Sources

1. Bacterial Vaginosis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Bacterial Vaginosis - CDC Fact Sheet — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Bacterial Vaginosis — Mayo Clinic.
4. Bacterial Vaginosis - Merck Manuals Consumer Version — Merck & Co., Inc..

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or concerns, please seek immediate medical attention.