Review: Betadine Vaginal (Povidone-Iodine)

Betadine Vaginal Preparations is a povidone-iodine mixture specifically formulated for vaginal use, either in a gel, douche or suppository.

Betadine is known to be bactericidal, trichomonacidal, virucidal and fungicidal. That means it kills bacteria, trichomonas, viruses and fungi, including yeasts.

Learn how to use povidone-iodine (Betadine) vaginally

Betadine is water soluble, creating a brown liquid, and unlike iodine, does not tend to stain skin or fabrics, though it is advisable to wear a panty liner as some staining may occur with synthetic fabric. The iodine in the mixture is the antiseptic element.

What Betadine Vaginal Preparations may treat

• Vaginal infections
• Non-specific vaginitis
• Vaginitis
• Vulvovaginitis associated with Trichomonas vaginalis and monilial infection

Instructions for use and safety

• Only use as a douche if that is the formulation – do not drink
• Do not use if you are sensitive to iodine
• Do not use in cases of sexually transmitted infection or pelvic inflammatory disease – see your doctor
• If symptoms persist after five days of use, or redness or pain develops, stop using the product and see your doctor
• Betadine is spermicidal, so if you are trying to get pregnant, avoid during fertile periods
• Do not use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding – vaginal absorption of iodine does occur

Preparations, treatments and doses

Gel

• 5g application and dose
• Mahogany coloured gel
• Contains povidone-iodine USP 10 per cent (1 per cent available iodine) in diffusible, water soluble polyethylene glycols
• pH 3.5 – 4.5
• Tube 85g with applicator

Suppository

• One suppository is one dose
• Contains povidone-iodine USP 200mg (20mg available iodine) in polyethylene glycol base
• Package contains 14 with applicator

Douche

• Betadine Concentration 25ml in 1 litre of lukewarm water per dose for infection, continue for up to two weeks, including during menstruation
• Routine douche (which is not recommended) – 6-12 ml in 1 litre of warm water no more than once or twice per week
• Scented formula
• Contains povidone-iodine USP 10 per cent (1 per cent available iodine)
• pH diluted 3.0 – 3.5
• Douching apparatus purchased separatedly
• Bottles of 100ml and 250ml
• Protect from excessive heat