How Long Does Bacterial Vaginosis Last?

Bacterial vaginosis requires treatment with prescription antibiotics, and symptoms usually go away after the full round of medication is completed, according to MayoClinic. Even if a woman takes all the medication prescribed to her, there is a chance of recurrence within 3 to 12 months.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that bacterial vaginosis can sometimes go away without any treatment; however, any woman who is experiencing symptoms of bacterial vaginosis should be treated by a doctor. The symptoms of bacterial vaginosis include vaginal discharge with a fishy odor, vaginal itching, burning while urinating and vaginal discharge with a gray-white tint. In some cases, women may not have any symptoms at all.

This condition is caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina, which is caused by an overgrowth of certain types of organisms. Risk factors for the condition include having multiple partners, having a natural lack of lactobacilli bacteria and douching.