WWHAM questions

Who is it for? It may not be the customer who needs the treatment. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, men and those under 16 or over 60 years should be referred to the pharmacist.

What are the symptoms? This will help you establish if the symptoms are caused by BV, thrush or another condition and which treatment to recommend.

How long have the symptoms been present? Find out if the customer has had the problem before. Refer anyone with repeated bouts of thrush or BV to the pharmacist.

Action already taken? This will help you establish what the customer has already tried and whether an alternative product may be more suitable.

Medication? It is important to refer any customer who has a medical condition or is taking other medication. Remember, vaginal problems can be caused by taking antibiotics.

When to refer to the pharmacist

• Customers who are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Anyone taking medication or with a medical condition
• Anyone under 16 or over 60 years
• If there have been more than two attacks in the last six months
• It is a customer's first attack
• There is bleeding after intercourse or between periods
• Anyone experiencing heavier than normal periods
• There is difficulty or pain when passing urine
• There is pain in the lower abdomen
• The sufferer is male
• If the customer has diarrhoea, nausea, fever, smelly discharge or discharge that has changed colour.