Women's Health Treatment | BV, Cystitis, Period Delay | Chemist Doctor UK

Women's Health Treatments

Access discreet, professional treatment for common women's health concerns from UK-registered doctors. Get prescription medications delivered to your door with complete privacy.

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Women's Health Treatments We Provide

We provide safe, effective prescription treatments for common women's health concerns. All medications are prescribed following a confidential online consultation with our UK-registered doctors.


Bacterial Vaginosis


Treatment for bacterial imbalance in the vagina causing discharge and odor. Effective prescription gels and tablets available.

  • Common Treatments Metronidazole, Clindamycin
  • Treatment Form Gels, Creams, Tablets
  • Price From £17.99

Learn More About BV Treatment

Cystitis (UTI)


Antibiotic treatment for urinary tract infections causing painful urination and frequent need to urinate.

  • Common Treatments Nitrofurantoin, Trimethoprim
  • Treatment Form Tablets, Capsules
  • Price From £17.99
Learn More About Cystitis Treatment

Period Delay


Medication to temporarily postpone your period for special occasions, holidays, or events.


  • Common Treatment Norethisterone
  • Treatment Form Tablets
  • Price From £14.59

Learn More About Period Delay

Facial Hair


Prescription cream to slow facial hair growth in women, particularly for hirsutism.


  • Common Treatment Eflornithine (Vaniqa)
  • Treatment Form Cream
  • Price From £72.99
Learn More About Facial Hair Treatment

Period Pain


Prescription-strength pain relief for menstrual cramps and discomfort during periods.


  • Common Treatments Naproxen, Mefenamic Acid
  • Treatment Form Tablets
  • Price From £12.49
Learn More About Period Pain Treatment

Understanding Women's Health

Women's health encompasses physical, mental, and emotional well-being specific to women. While many health issues affect both men and women, some conditions are female-specific or present differently in women. Understanding these conditions is the first step toward effective treatment and improved quality of life.

Common Women's Health Concerns

Women often face unique health challenges throughout their lives. Common women's health issues include reproductive health concerns like bacterial vaginosis and period problems, urinary tract infections, hormonal imbalances, and conditions related to hair growth. Addressing these issues early can prevent complications and improve overall wellbeing.

Barriers to Seeking Help

  • Embarrassment: Many women feel uncomfortable discussing intimate health concerns
  • Time constraints: Busy schedules may prevent regular doctor visits
  • Privacy concerns: Worries about confidentiality when discussing sensitive issues
  • Stigma: Societal expectations can discourage help-seeking for certain conditions

Our online service addresses these barriers by providing discreet, convenient access to healthcare professionals from the privacy of your home.

Conditions We Treat

At Chemist Doctor, we specialize in providing treatment for common women's health concerns that can significantly impact quality of life. Our approach combines medical expertise with a deep understanding of the unique challenges women face when seeking help for sensitive health issues.

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Bacterial vaginosis is a common vaginal infection caused by an imbalance of the natural bacteria in the vagina. It's not considered a sexually transmitted infection, but it can increase your risk of getting an STI.

Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis

Many women with BV don't experience symptoms, but when they do occur, they may include:

Symptom Description Prevalence
Vaginal Discharge Thin, white or gray discharge ~90% of symptomatic cases
Odor Strong fish-like odor, especially after sex ~80% of symptomatic cases
Itching or Irritation Mild itching around the vagina ~30% of symptomatic cases
Burning During Urination Mild burning sensation when urinating ~20% of symptomatic cases

BV Treatment Options

Several effective treatments are available for bacterial vaginosis:

Topical Treatments

  • Zidoval Gel: Metronidazole gel applied directly to the vagina
  • Dalacin Cream: Clindamycin cream applied vaginally

Oral Medications

  • Metronidazole Tablets: Antibiotic taken orally
  • Tinidazole Tablets: Alternative oral antibiotic

Prevention and Management

To help prevent BV recurrence:

  • Avoid douching, which can disrupt natural vaginal bacteria
  • Limit the number of sexual partners
  • Use condoms during sexual intercourse
  • Wear cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothing
  • Consider probiotics specifically formulated for vaginal health

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

While BV is rarely a medical emergency, seek immediate help if you experience:

  • Fever accompanied by vaginal symptoms
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Nausea or vomiting with vaginal discharge
  • Symptoms that worsen despite treatment

Cystitis (Urinary Tract Infection)

Cystitis is inflammation of the bladder, usually caused by a bladder infection. It's a common type of urinary tract infection (UTI), particularly in women. Women have a shorter urethra than men, which means bacteria can reach the bladder more easily.

Symptoms of Cystitis

Common symptoms of cystitis include:

Symptom Description Prevalence
Painful Urination Burning or stinging sensation when urinating ~95% of cases
Frequent Urination Needing to urinate more often than usual ~90% of cases
Urgent Urination Sudden, strong need to urinate ~85% of cases
Cloudy or Strong-Smelling Urine Urine appears cloudy or has a strong odor ~70% of cases
Lower Abdominal Pain Pain in lower abdomen or back ~60% of cases

Cystitis Treatment Options

Several effective treatments are available for cystitis:

Antibiotic Treatments

  • Nitrofurantoin: Commonly prescribed antibiotic for UTIs
  • Trimethoprim: Effective antibiotic for urinary tract infections
  • Cephalexin: Alternative antibiotic option

Self-Care Measures

  • Drink plenty of water to flush out bacteria
  • Avoid holding urine for long periods
  • Empty your bladder completely when urinating
  • Wipe from front to back after using the toilet
  • Avoid potentially irritating feminine products
  • Urinate shortly after sexual intercourse

Prevention Strategies

  • Stay well-hydrated throughout the day
  • Drink cranberry juice or take cranberry supplements
  • Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing
  • Avoid using spermicides if they trigger UTIs
  • Consider taking a probiotic supplement

Period Delay

Period delay medications allow you to temporarily postpone your menstrual period for special occasions, holidays, or events. These treatments work by maintaining higher levels of progesterone, which prevents the uterine lining from shedding.

How Period Delay Works

Period delay tablets contain a synthetic version of the hormone progesterone (norethisterone). When taken as directed, they:

Mechanism Effect Timing
Hormone Maintenance Keeps progesterone levels high Starts working within 1-2 days
Uterine Lining Prevents shedding of uterine lining Effective throughout treatment
Period Onset Period begins 2-3 days after stopping After last tablet

Period Delay Treatment Options

Several effective medications are available for period delay:

Prescription Medications

  • Norethisterone Tablets: Most commonly prescribed period delay medication
  • Utovlan Tablets: Brand version of norethisterone
  • Primolut N Tablets: Alternative progesterone medication

How to Use Period Delay Tablets

  1. Start taking tablets 3-4 days before your period is due
  2. Take one tablet three times daily
  3. Continue taking tablets until you want your period to start
  4. Your period should begin 2-3 days after stopping the tablets

Important Considerations

  • Not suitable for long-term use
  • Should not be used as a regular form of contraception
  • May cause side effects like nausea, headaches, or breast tenderness
  • Not recommended if you have a history of blood clots, liver problems, or certain cancers
  • Always consult with a doctor before use

Facial Hair in Women

Excessive facial hair in women (hirsutism) is a common condition that can cause distress and affect self-esteem. It's often caused by hormonal imbalances, particularly increased androgen levels, but can also be influenced by genetics, ethnicity, and certain medical conditions.

Causes of Facial Hair in Women

Several factors can contribute to excessive facial hair growth:

Cause Description Prevalence
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Hormonal disorder common in women of reproductive age ~70% of hirsutism cases
Idiopathic Hirsutism No identifiable cause, often genetic ~15% of cases
Medications Certain drugs can stimulate hair growth ~5% of cases
Other Hormonal Conditions Adrenal gland disorders, thyroid problems ~10% of cases

Facial Hair Treatment Options

Several approaches can help manage unwanted facial hair:

Prescription Treatment

  • Vaniqa Cream: Prescription cream that slows facial hair growth

Other Management Options

  • Laser Hair Removal: Professional treatment for long-term reduction
  • Electrolysis: Permanent hair removal method
  • Bleaching: Makes hair less noticeable
  • Waxing/Threading: Temporary removal methods

How Vaniqa Cream Works

Vaniqa (eflornithine) works by inhibiting an enzyme (ornithine decarboxylase) necessary for hair growth. This slows down the rate of hair growth, making hair finer and less noticeable over time.

Using Vaniqa Cream Effectively

  • Apply a thin layer to affected areas twice daily
  • Use at least 8 hours apart
  • Continue with your normal hair removal methods
  • Results typically visible within 4-8 weeks
  • Discontinue use if no improvement after 4 months

Period Pain (Dysmenorrhea)

Period pain, or dysmenorrhea, is a common condition characterized by cramping pain in the lower abdomen that occurs before and during menstrual periods. While some discomfort is normal, severe pain that interferes with daily activities may require treatment.

Types of Period Pain

Period pain is generally categorized into two main types:

Type Description Prevalence
Primary Dysmenorrhea Common menstrual cramps without underlying disease ~80% of cases
Secondary Dysmenorrhea Pain caused by reproductive system disorders ~20% of cases

Period Pain Treatment Options

Several effective treatments are available for period pain:

Medication Options

  • Naproxen: Prescription-strength NSAID for pain relief
  • Ibuprofen: Over-the-counter NSAID option
  • Mefenamic Acid: Specifically for menstrual pain
  • Combined Contraceptive Pill: Can reduce period pain

Non-Medication Approaches

  • Heat Therapy: Heating pads or hot water bottles on abdomen
  • Exercise: Regular physical activity can reduce symptoms
  • Dietary Changes: Reducing salt, caffeine, and increasing omega-3s
  • Stress Management: Relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation
  • Acupuncture: Some women find relief with acupuncture

When to See a Doctor

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

  • Severe pain that doesn't respond to over-the-counter medication
  • Pain that starts more than 1-2 days before your period
  • Heavy bleeding or passing large clots
  • Fever with menstrual pain
  • Pain that suddenly changes pattern or severity

How Our Women's Health Service Works

Getting treatment through Chemist Doctor is simple, discreet, and convenient. Our process is designed to respect your privacy while ensuring you receive safe, appropriate care.

Step 1: Complete Online Consultation

Answer questions about your health history, symptoms, and any current medications. Our secure platform ensures your information remains confidential.

Step 2: Medical Review by UK Doctor

A UK-registered doctor reviews your consultation to determine if treatment is appropriate and safe for you. We may contact you for additional information if needed.

Step 3: Prescription Issued

If approved, our doctor issues a prescription which is sent to our partner pharmacy for dispensing.

Step 4: Discreet Delivery

Your medication is packaged discreetly and delivered to your chosen address via tracked delivery.

What to Expect During Consultation

Our women's health consultation typically includes questions about:

  • Your specific symptoms and concerns
  • Medical history including any existing conditions
  • Current medications and any allergies
  • Previous treatments you've tried
  • Any relevant lifestyle factors

Honest, complete answers ensure our doctors can make the safest recommendations for your situation.

Women's Health FAQs

All medications available through Chemist Doctor are approved by the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and are prescribed only when our doctors determine they are safe for you based on your medical history and current health status.

We take your privacy seriously. All consultations are confidential, medications are sent in plain packaging with no indication of contents, and billing appears under a neutral name on your statement.

Our doctors will review your medical history during the consultation. Some conditions or medications may make certain treatments unsuitable, but we'll only prescribe medications that are safe given your overall health profile.

For orders approved before 3pm on weekdays, we aim to dispatch the same day for next-day delivery. Standard delivery takes 2-3 business days.

If your initial treatment isn't effective, you can complete a follow-up consultation to discuss alternative options. Our doctors may adjust your prescription or recommend a different approach.

We only contact your GP with your explicit consent. We recommend keeping your GP informed of any medications you're taking for comprehensive care.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Don't let women's health concerns affect your quality of life. Our discreet, professional service makes it easy to get the treatment you need from UK-registered doctors.

Medical Content Manager
Authored by Nabeel

Medical Content Manager

Nabeel is a co-founder, and medical content manager of Chemist Doctor. He works closely with our medical team to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date.

Medical Doctor

Dr. Talal is a GMC registered doctor and medical reviewer at Chemist Doctor. He ensures clinical accuracy and reliability across health content.

Medical Director
Approved by Usman

Medical Director

Usman is a co-founder, and medical director of Chemist Doctor. He leads the organisation's strategic vision, bridging clinical and operational priorities.

Review Date: 28 Nov 2025

Next Review: 04 June 2026

Published on: 27 Nov 2025

Last Updated: 28 Nov 2025

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