References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
Clindamycin is an antibiotic used in sexual health primarily to treat bacterial vaginosis (BV). It’s available as vaginal cream or oral capsules. Clindamycin is an alternative to metronidazole for BV and is sometimes used when metronidazole isn’t suitable or tolerated.
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Uses
| Condition | Form |
|---|---|
| Bacterial vaginosis | Vaginal cream (2%) for 7 nights |
| BV (oral alternative) | Capsules for 7 days |
| Pelvic inflammatory disease | Part of combination treatment |
Side Effects
- Vaginal irritation (cream)
- Diarrhoea (oral — can rarely cause C. difficile)
- Nausea
Important Notes
- Vaginal cream can weaken latex condoms
- Complete the full course
- Alcohol is safe with clindamycin (unlike metronidazole)
Read more: What is BV? | BV testing | Vaginal infections
Frequently Asked Questions
Is clindamycin better than metronidazole for BV?
Similar effectiveness — choice depends on tolerance and preference.
Can I use condoms during treatment?
Vaginal cream can weaken latex — use alternatives or abstain.
Is it prescription only?
Yes.
Related reading
- Using Antibiotics to Prevent STIs: DoxyPEP Explained
- Azithromycin: Uses in Sexual Health
- Best Antibiotics for STIs: A Practical Guide
- Ciprofloxacin for STIs: Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects
- Diflucan (Fluconazole): What It Does
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
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