Will BV Go Away on Its Own? How Long Does It Take With and Without Treatment

Dealing with bacterial vaginosis (BV) can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you're juggling a busy schedule or don’t feel like making yet another doctor’s appointment. 

It's completely understandable to hope that the infection might clear up on its own, but while it’s tempting to wait it out, untreated BV can lead to more serious health complications. 

Understanding the full picture can help you make an informed decision about whether or not to seek care. Keep reading to learn more about the risks of leaving bacterial vaginosis untreated.

Key takeaways

• BV can sometimes clear up on its own, but it's not guaranteed, and most cases need antibiotics to fully resolve.
• With treatment, BV usually clears within a week or two. Without treatment, it can linger for weeks or months and may return even if symptoms briefly improve.
• Signs BV is resolving include less odor, lighter or more typical vaginal discharge, and reduced itching or irritation, though it's possible to feel "normal" again before the infection is fully gone.
• Leaving BV untreated raises your risk of STIs, PID, and pregnancy complications like preterm birth.
• See your healthcare provider if symptoms persist, keep coming back, or if you're unsure what's going on. An Evvy Vaginal Microbiome Test can help identify the bacteria involved and guide a more targeted treatment plan.

What happens if bacterial vaginosis goes untreated? 

Bacterial vaginosis occurs when the bacteria in your vaginal microbiome become imbalanced. Normally, healthy bacteria (Lactobacilli) keep the vagina acidic and keep less helpful bacteria in check. When that balance shifts, bacteria like Gardnerella and Prevotella can overgrow, leading to BV.

Left untreated, BV typically doesn't resolve on its own and can persist for weeks or months, with symptoms like discharge, odor, and irritation worsening in the meantime. Untreated BV has also been linked to a higher risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs), developing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and pregnancy complications, including preterm birth. Because the bacterial imbalance driving BV can also make the vaginal environment more hospitable to other unwanted bacteria, untreated cases sometimes pave the way for recurrent or compounding infections.

The exact cause of the imbalance isn't always clear, but several factors can make it more likely to develop — and more likely to come back if untreated. Sexual activity, especially with new or multiple sex partners, can shift vaginal bacteria. Douching and scented feminine hygiene products like vaginal deodorants can disrupt vaginal flora, and hormonal changes during menopause or your menstrual cycle can make some people more susceptible.

Untreated BV symptoms

The most common bacterial vaginosis symptoms include: 

• Watery, gray vaginal discharge
• A fishy vaginal odor 
• Vaginal discomfort, itching, or irritation. 

However, most women with bacterial vaginosis don’t have any symptoms. It’s also possible for these symptoms to be caused by other vaginal infections or STIs.

How long does it take for BV to go away without treatment?

Mild cases of bacterial vaginosis may clear up on their own, but there’s no guarantee that they will. Even if symptoms temporarily improve, bacterial vaginosis can linger and come back later. Without treatment, the infection might last for weeks or even months, making you uncomfortable and potentially leading to more serious health risks.

Is it safe to leave BV untreated?

You might be tempted to let bacterial vaginosis resolve on its own, especially if your symptoms are mild or seem to come and go. But it’s generally not a good idea to leave it untreated. While some cases may resolve on their own, untreated BV can increase your risk of other health issues, like STIs, PID, or complications during pregnancy if you're expecting. 

The bacterial imbalance that causes BV can also lead to persistent symptoms such as odor, discharge, or irritation, which can affect your comfort and confidence. If you're unsure whether you have bacterial vaginosis or what to do next, it’s best to check in with a healthcare provider to get a proper diagnosis and guidance tailored to your situation.

Signs BV is clearing up on its own

Some signs that bacterial vaginosis might be clearing up on its own include a noticeable reduction in symptoms like vaginal odor, discharge, or irritation. You may see the discharge return to a more typical consistency — clear or white rather than gray or thin — and the strong or fishy smell may fade. If you had burning or discomfort, those sensations might lessen or go away completely.

However, it’s important to know that BV can sometimes be asymptomatic, meaning you might have the infection even if you don’t notice any obvious symptoms. So, just because things feel normal again doesn’t always mean the infection is completely gone. In some cases, BV can linger or come back quickly, especially without treatment. 

Can BV go away on its own without antibiotics?

Technically, yes — but it's not something to count on. A small number of very mild BV cases can clear up without treatment, especially if your body manages to restore its natural balance of bacteria on its own. But for most people, BV doesn't resolve without antibiotics, and waiting it out often means living with symptoms like odor, discharge, or vaginal itching for longer than necessary. Even if your symptoms feel mild, it's worth getting checked out rather than hoping it goes away. Antibiotics are the most reliable way to clear BV and lower these risks, and a quick conversation with a provider can help you figure out the right next step.

What affects how long BV lasts without treatment?

How long untreated BV sticks around varies a lot from person to person. Several factors play a role, including how disrupted your vaginal microbiome is to begin with and whether the bacteria causing the imbalance are particularly stubborn.

Ongoing triggers can also keep BV going. If you're still douching, using scented hygiene products, or having unprotected sex, your symptoms may persist or keep coming back. Hormonal shifts, like those during your period or menopause, can extend things too, since they affect your vaginal pH and bacterial balance.

Your overall vaginal microbiome health matters as well. A microbiome that's already low in protective Lactobacilli may struggle to bounce back on its own, which is part of why BV can drag on for weeks or longer without treatment.

How long can you have BV without knowing

It's hard to say, because BV often doesn't cause any noticeable symptoms, so it's possible to have it for weeks, months, or longer without realizing anything's off. Some people get clear signs like odor or discharge, but plenty of others have very mild symptoms or none at all, even with a meaningful imbalance in their vaginal microbiome.

Without symptoms to prompt a check-up, BV can go unnoticed indefinitely. And the same risks of untreated BV still apply during that time. If you're due for a check-up or just curious about your vaginal microbiome, testing is the most reliable way to know what's going on. It can detect imbalances even when you're not experiencing obvious symptoms, so you're not left guessing.

Risks of untreated BV

BV might seem like a minor or annoying problem at first, especially if you're not experiencing many symptoms. However, it’s important not to overlook it, as untreated BV can lead to more serious issues.

Bacterial vaginosis can lead to complications that are best avoided when left untreated. Having bacterial vaginosis increases your risk of contracting STIs, because the imbalance of bacteria can make the vaginal environment more susceptible to harmful pathogens. 

Increased risk of STIs

When the vaginal microbiome is disrupted, as it is with BV, the protective barrier that normally keeps harmful bacteria and viruses in check becomes weakened. Studies have shown that women with untreated BV are more likely to contract STIs, including HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis.

The inflammation and elevated vaginal pH associated with BV can also make it easier for these pathogens to enter the body. Even more concerning, BV can reduce the effectiveness of natural immune responses in the genital tract, which normally help to prevent infections.

Treating bacterial vaginosis not only restores vaginal balance but also helps lower your overall risk of future STI exposure, especially if you’re sexually active with new or multiple sexual partners.

Pelvic inflammatory disease and other infections

If BV is left untreated, the bacteria responsible for the imbalance can travel up into the upper reproductive tract, potentially causing PID.

PID is a serious condition involving infection and inflammation of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. It can cause chronic pelvic pain, long-term reproductive damage, and, in some cases, infertility due to scarring of the fallopian tubes.

Even mild, untreated infections like BV can lay the groundwork for more invasive infections that move beyond the vagina. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of BV can reduce the risk of these more serious complications and help protect your long-term reproductive health.

Pregnancy complications and fertility issues

For people who are pregnant or trying to conceive, untreated BV can have serious implications. BV during pregnancy has been linked to an increased risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and even miscarriage in some cases. Researchers believe that the inflammation caused by BV — and the bacteria themselves — may trigger early labor or interfere with the healthy development of the pregnancy.

For those undergoing fertility treatments, an imbalanced vaginal microbiome may also reduce the likelihood of a successful implantation. Treating BV during pregnancy is usually safe and effective, and your healthcare provider can recommend options that are appropriate for that stage of life.

How to treat bacterial vaginosis

The most effective way to treat bacterial vaginosis is with prescription antibiotics. Common treatments include oral antibiotics such as metronidazole and topical treatments in the form of creams or gels. It’s important to complete the full course of treatment, even if your symptoms improve quickly, to ensure the infection doesn’t return. You should also avoid sex until you've finished your full course of treatment and your BV symptoms have fully cleared up.

Each antibiotic works differently depending on the type of bacteria. When treating BV, knowing which specific bacteria in your microbiome are responsible for the infection can help you choose the right antibiotic.

With Evvy’s Vaginal Microbiome Test, you can get a detailed view of the bacteria, fungi, and other microbes in your vaginal microbiome, including the ones most commonly linked to BV. Eligible users will also have access to a prescription treatment developed by a provider and tailored to their unique test results. This may include prescription medication and evidence-based supplements designed to treat the cause of BV and support a healthier vaginal microbiome over time. 

A study examining the effectiveness of Evvy’s Complete Treatment Program found that 83% of participants transitioned from dysbiosis to a protective microbiome, and all reported improvements in bacterial vaginosis symptoms.

Infections that cause symptoms similar to bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis shares symptoms with several other vaginal or urinary infections, which is why it's essential to see a doctor if you experience any signs of infection. 

Yeast infections, for example, can cause itching and unusual vaginal discharge, but the discharge is typically thicker and has a different consistency than bacterial vaginosis. STIs, such as trichomoniasis, can also cause fishy-smelling vaginal discharge and discomfort.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can sometimes be mistaken for bacterial vaginosis if the infection irritates the urethra, causing discomfort during urination. Because these different conditions require different treatments, getting an accurate diagnosis is crucial.

When should you see a healthcare provider?

While bacterial vaginosis may clear up on its own in some cases, it’s not something you should ignore. If you notice any symptoms like unusual vaginal discharge, a fishy odor, or discomfort, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor. They can confirm whether you have bacterial vaginosis or another condition and provide the right treatment. 

While bacterial vaginosis isn’t usually dangerous, the potential risks of leaving it untreated make it worth addressing quickly. Plus, many other infections share similar symptoms, so seeing a doctor ensures an accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.

You can also take Evvy’s at-home Vaginal Health Test + STI Test, which tests for bacteria that cause bacterial vaginosis, as well as four of the most common STIs. Eligible users can also receive personalized care for their symptoms. 

FAQs about untreated BV

Is it OK to leave BV untreated?

It’s generally not a good idea to leave bacterial vaginosis untreated. While it may sometimes go away on its own, this isn't guaranteed and can lead to several complications. First, bacterial vaginosis can increase your risk of more serious infections. It makes the vaginal environment more vulnerable to STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV. Additionally, it can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, a condition that can affect the uterus and fallopian tubes, potentially causing fertility issues. For pregnant women, leaving bacterial vaginosis untreated can increase the risk of complications such as preterm labor. Even if your symptoms seem mild, it's important to seek treatment to avoid these risks. Antibiotics are effective at restoring the balance of vaginal bacteria and reducing the chances of recurrence.

Can BV clear up without treatment? 

Bacterial vaginosis can sometimes resolve on its own, especially if the bacterial imbalance is mild. However, it's hard to predict if or when bacterial vaginosis will go away on its own. Even if symptoms improve temporarily, the infection can persist or return later if left untreated. Relying on bacterial vaginosis to clear up without treatment is risky because untreated bacterial vaginosis can lead to complications, such as an increased risk of STIs, pelvic inflammatory disease, and, for pregnant women, complications like preterm labor. To effectively restore the balance of vaginal bacteria and reduce the risk of these issues, it's best to consult your doctor and use prescribed antibiotics or recommended treatments. Another option is to seek personalized care for bacterial vaginosis through Evvy's Clinical Care platform.

How do I know if my BV is completely gone? 

You'll know your bacterial vaginosis is likely gone when your symptoms have completely resolved — this means no unusual vaginal discharge, fishy odor, or discomfort. If you're no longer experiencing these symptoms, it's a good indication that the infection has cleared up. That said, some women may feel better even if the infection isn’t fully resolved. To be certain, it's important to finish the full course of antibiotics if you’ve been prescribed them, even if your symptoms improve before you’re done. In some cases, your doctor may recommend a follow-up visit or test to confirm that the infection is fully cleared, especially if you have recurrent bacterial vaginosis. If symptoms return, it’s best to check in with your provider again or take an Evvy Vaginal Microbiome Test.

What can I drink to flush out BV?

There’s no specific drink that will directly "flush out" bacterial vaginosis, as it’s caused by a bacterial imbalance in the vagina and not something that can be resolved through fluids alone. There’s no evidence that certain drinks or dietary choices treat or prevent bacterial vaginosis.

How long does BV smell last?

The fishy odor associated with BV can last as long as the infection itself, so anywhere from a few weeks to several months if left untreated. It often comes and goes, and may get stronger after having sex or during your period. Treating the underlying imbalance with antibiotics is the most effective way to clear the smell, rather than waiting for it to fade on its own.

What happens if you don't treat BV for a month?

A month of untreated BV means a longer stretch of symptoms like discharge, odor, or itching, plus more time for the bacterial imbalance to potentially worsen. Your risk of complications, like contracting an STI or developing PID, also stays elevated the longer BV goes untreated. Some cases improve on their own, but most don't clear up without treatment.

What to do if BV never goes away?

If BV keeps coming back or won't clear up, it could be that the bacteria causing it are resistant to standard treatment. Evvy’s Vaginal Microbiome Test identifies exactly which bacteria are present, so your provider can tailor a treatment plan instead of retrying the same approach. Some providers recommend pairing an antibiotic regimen with boric acid suppositories for cases that aren't responding to antibiotics alone. Eligible Evvy users can also access custom prescription treatment through an Evvy-affiliated provider, who can design a plan based on your test results and your unique microbiome.

Can untreated BV cause a kidney infection?

No, BV itself doesn't directly cause kidney infections. But an imbalanced vaginal microbiome can make you more prone to UTIs, and an untreated UTI can spread to the kidneys if it's not caught in time. So while the two aren't directly linked, untreated BV can indirectly raise your risk by making UTIs more likely.

Can untreated BV make you sick?

BV usually doesn't cause systemic illness on its own, but it can lead to complications that affect your broader health, like PID, a higher chance of contracting an STI, or pregnancy complications such as preterm birth. If you develop fever, pelvic pain, or other symptoms beyond typical discharge or odor, it's worth getting checked out, since that can be a sign the infection has progressed beyond BV alone.