At a glance
- For adult women with typical symptoms of bacterial vaginosis.
- A nurse or midwife can independently prescribe a vaginal medicine only.
- If you are pregnant or have recurring infections, you need to see a doctor.
Typical symptoms
- watery, greyish-white discharge,
- an unpleasant, “fishy” smell, often more noticeable after sex,
- usually little or no itching.
If the main symptoms are intense itching and thick, white discharge, they are more consistent with vaginal thrush. The form asks for details so that the nurse can tell the two apart or recommend an examination.
What the nurse can do
The Minister of Health's list allows nurses and midwives to independently prescribe metronidazole – in vaginal form only.
Whether you need a medicine is decided by the person carrying out your consultation. If your symptoms are unclear, or need a gynaecological examination, you'll be advised to see a doctor instead of receiving a prescription.
How it works
You fill in a form
You describe your symptoms and answer questions about your health, the medicines you take and your medical history. It takes a few minutes.
A nurse assesses your request
A nurse or midwife reads your answers and, if anything is missing, asks follow-up questions. It is the nurse or midwife who decides whether a prescription is appropriate.
You get an e-prescription or a clear answer
If a medicine is appropriate, you receive an e-prescription code that you can use at any pharmacy. If not, you'll find out why and what to do next.
When you need to see a doctor
Book an appointment with a doctor instead of an online consultation if:
- you are pregnant or might be pregnant,
- you are under 18,
- you have a fever or pain in your lower abdomen,
- your discharge is bloodstained or you have bleeding between periods,
- you think you might have a sexually transmitted infection,
- your infections keep coming back, or your symptoms didn't clear up after earlier treatment,
- you have recently given birth or had a gynaecological procedure.
In an emergency – severe pain, shortness of breath, confusion or loss of consciousness, rapidly worsening symptoms – call 112 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department (SOR). An online consultation is not an emergency service.
Frequently asked questions
How is bacterial vaginosis different from thrush?
With bacterial vaginosis, watery discharge with an unpleasant smell is typical and there is little itching. With thrush, the main symptoms are itching and thick, white discharge. The treatment is different, which is why a detailed history matters.
Can a nurse issue a prescription for this condition?
Yes – for a vaginal medicine containing a substance on the Minister of Health's list. A nurse cannot independently prescribe oral medicines.
Will I definitely get a prescription?
There's no guarantee. A prescription is issued only when the medicine is appropriate and safe.
The content on this page is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice.
