What does p.v. stand for?

• A. Per vagina
• B. Per rectum
• C. With meals
• D. Every hour

Answer: (A)

Understanding how drug administration is written as an abbreviation is essential. p.v. stands for per vagina, signaling that the medication is intended for vaginal administration, such as a vaginal cream, suppository, or pessary. This route is different from per rectum (p.r.) and from other indications like taking something with meals or at specific times, which use different shorthand. In practice, while the exact abbreviation may vary by institution, p.v. clearly indicates a vaginal route of administration.