Best Natural Ways to Treat BV in Pregnancy Without Antibiotics

If you’re currently pregnant and battling Bacterial Vaginosis (BV), first off—you’re definitely not alone. I remember feeling absolutely thrown off when my OB-GYN casually mentioned I had BV during my second trimester. No symptoms, no warning, just… “Hey, you’ve got BV.” At the time, I wasn’t even sure what it meant, let alone how it could affect my pregnancy. Spoiler: It can, and it does. But here’s the thing—treating BV during pregnancy doesn’t have to be a full-on antibiotic mission unless absolutely necessary. There are gentle, natural remedies and smart preventive steps you can take to support your body’s healing without disrupting the delicate balance down there.

Why Natural Remedies Are a Safer Choice During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a game of balance—and when it comes to vaginal health, that balance can easily tip. Traditional BV treatments like metronidazole or clindamycin are generally safe but not everyone feels great popping pills during those crucial months. Plus, let’s be honest—who wants to throw antibiotics into the mix when you’re already dealing with nausea, hormone swings, and a fetus doing gymnastics at 3 AM?

Natural approaches don’t just treat the symptoms—they support the body’s own defenses. During pregnancy, that’s *gold*. You’re not just treating BV; you’re also creating a healthier environment for your baby to thrive in.

What Causes BV During Pregnancy Anyway?

Here’s the wild part—doctors still don’t fully agree on one single cause. But there are known triggers:

• Changes in vaginal pH due to hormonal shifts
• Sexual activity (yep, even with one partner)
• Over-cleaning or using fragranced products
• Stress—emotional and physical

If you’re curious about how sexual activity plays a role, this article breaks it down really well.

Top Natural Remedies for BV in Pregnancy That Actually Work

Let’s dive into what worked for me and what’s backed by science. No gimmicks—just safe, soothing options that can help get things back in balance.

1. Probiotics—But Not Just Any Kind

Start here. Think of probiotics as reinforcements for your vagina’s natural army. I used an oral probiotic that contained *Lactobacillus rhamnosus* and *Lactobacillus reuteri*, and saw improvements within a week. Vaginal probiotics exist too, but during pregnancy, I stuck with the oral kind.

More on this here: Probiotics for BV

2. Yogurt—The Old-School Hero

Greek yogurt with live cultures can be applied topically (wear a liner!) or eaten daily. I chose to eat it religiously with a spoonful of honey and some chia seeds. The results? Less irritation, and after a few days, discharge that looked… well, more normal.

If you’re considering this route, this guide walks through it clearly.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar Baths

Now, I was skeptical. But a warm bath with 1 cup of raw ACV helped with the odor and discomfort. No internal use—just a soak. It balanced the pH externally and calmed irritation.

Here’s a useful breakdown on this: Apple Cider Vinegar for BV

4. Coconut Oil

Anti-fungal, soothing, and safe. I used it as a thin external layer post-shower. It works wonders for reducing itching and keeps things moisturized naturally. Cold-pressed, organic only.

You can dive deeper into this here: Coconut Oil for BV

5. Tea Tree Oil? Proceed with Caution

I personally skipped this one—it’s potent. Some women use diluted tea tree oil vaginal suppositories, but during pregnancy, it’s best to consult your OB-GYN before experimenting. It’s effective, sure, but the risks aren’t worth DIYing it without supervision.

Supportive Habits to Prevent Recurrence

While you’re treating the current flare-up, don’t forget prevention. I changed a few habits and honestly, they made a massive difference:

1. Switch to cotton underwear—Breathability matters more than you think
2. Skip the scented stuff—Body washes, pantyliners, even laundry detergent
3. Wipe front to back—It’s basic, but crucial
4. Use condoms—Yes, even when you’re already pregnant

There’s a great prevention guide you might want to bookmark: BV Prevention Tips

How BV Impacts Pregnancy (And Why You Should Act Quickly)

This part hit me hard. BV isn’t just a nuisance—it can increase the risk of preterm labor, low birth weight, and other complications. That’s why natural treatment isn’t about skipping medical care, it’s about supporting your body while staying in close contact with your doctor.

Here’s a deep dive into how BV affects pregnancy outcomes: BV Miscarriage Risk Facts

And if you’re just starting your research on BV and pregnancy, the broader guide is incredibly helpful: BV in Pregnancy Guide

For a more complete understanding of BV causes and safe treatment routes, I highly recommend visiting our main resource on the topic: What is BV?

How Diet Can Support a Healthy Vaginal Environment

I underestimated how much diet could affect something like BV until I actually started paying attention to it. Turns out, certain foods either help feed good bacteria—or completely throw them off. During my third trimester, I focused on what I called the “BV-friendly grocery list.” Think prebiotic fiber, low sugar, and fermented goodness.

Foods That Support Vaginal Health

• Leafy greens – Spinach, kale, arugula. Bonus: great for folate.
• Plain Greek yogurt – Adds probiotics without added sugar
• Garlic – Natural antimicrobial support
• Sweet potatoes – Rich in Vitamin A, great for mucosal health

What to Avoid

• Processed sugar – It feeds the bad bacteria
• Refined carbs – Like white bread and pasta
• Dairy with additives – Go clean or go home
• Fizzy drinks – That bloating isn’t just in your belly

There’s a helpful breakdown here on how sugar affects BV. It changed the way I looked at dessert, honestly.

Should Your Partner Be Treated Too?

This one’s a bit of a gray area—but a relevant one. Some OBs don’t even bring it up unless you ask. I did. And here’s what I found: while BV isn’t officially classified as an STI, sexual activity absolutely influences recurrence. My partner and I used condoms consistently and even switched to a pH-balanced lubricant. That alone made a noticeable difference.

It’s worth checking this out if you’re wondering whether he should get involved too: Do I Need to Treat My Partner for BV?

What to Do When BV Keeps Coming Back

Let’s talk about the rollercoaster of recurring BV. I experienced two rounds—one in my second trimester, and another near week 34. It’s incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re doing “all the right things.”

The truth? Hormones are shifting, immunity is fluctuating, and sometimes your good bacteria just can’t keep up. Here’s what helped reduce recurrence for me:

1. Taking daily oral probiotics with meals
2. Wearing breathable, 100% cotton underwear—no exceptions
3. Using unscented, pH-neutral feminine wash 2–3x/week (not daily)
4. Being super consistent with hydration—like 8–10 glasses minimum

There’s a solid piece that dives into causes and solutions for recurrent cases here: Long-Term Solutions for BV

When It’s Time to Involve Your OB-GYN

Natural doesn’t mean anti-doctor. I can’t stress that enough. In fact, when my symptoms lasted more than five days even after making dietary changes and using probiotics, I called my OB. She ran a swab and confirmed that while things were improving, I’d benefit from a short round of metronidazole gel. I was nervous, but in the end, it helped clear things out so the probiotics could do their job better.

Here’s where you draw the line and get your doctor involved:

• Strong or persistent fishy odor
• Yellow or gray discharge that doesn’t improve
• Cramping, spotting, or any discomfort that feels “off”
• History of preterm labor or miscarriage

More insights on safe pregnancy treatments: BV Treatment While Pregnant

Stick With What Works—And Be Gentle With Yourself

Honestly, dealing with BV while pregnant forced me to slow down, listen to my body, and reconsider how I was supporting my health. I swapped my scented body wash, ditched bubble baths, and started walking more outdoors just to reduce stress. That’s what this whole journey taught me—it’s not just about clearing an infection; it’s about nurturing an entire environment for you and your baby to thrive in.

If you want to get a better understanding of what causes BV and how to reduce risks moving forward, this main pillar is an excellent reference: BV Causes and Risk Factors

And for the complete overview of BV from diagnosis to prevention, this hub covers everything clearly: What is BV?

Gwenna Aazee

Dr. Gwenna Aazee is a board-certified Internal Medicine Physician with a special focus on hypertension management, chronic disease prevention, and patient education. With years of experience in both clinical practice and medical writing, she’s passionate about turning evidence-based medicine into accessible, actionable advice. Through her work at Healthusias.com, Dr. Aazee empowers readers to take charge of their health with confidence and clarity. Off the clock, she enjoys deep dives into nutrition research, long walks with her rescue pup, and simplifying medical jargon one article at a time.