Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal condition. It occurs due to an imbalance in the vaginal microbiome, with an overgrowth of certain bacteria like Gardnerella vaginalis and a decrease in beneficial Lactobacillus species. BV is the most common cause of vaginal discharge, affecting a significant percentage of women aged 15-44. Symptoms can include unusual vaginal discharge that may appear white or gray, a strong fish-like odor, particularly after sex, and sometimes itching or burning around the vagina.
Understanding BV Transmission to Men
BV is fundamentally an imbalance of the vaginal microbiome, an environment unique to the female anatomy. The male anatomy, including the urethra and penis, does not provide the specific conditions necessary for the characteristic bacterial overgrowth that defines BV in women. While bacteria associated with BV, such as Gardnerella vaginalis, can be present on a man’s penis, this presence does not typically lead to a BV infection in the man himself. BV is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI) because it is an overgrowth of naturally occurring bacteria rather than an infection transmitted from one person to another that causes disease in both. Therefore, men usually do not experience symptoms or the bacterial imbalance associated with the condition, even if they carry the associated bacteria.
The Male Partner’s Influence on BV in Women
Although men do not develop BV themselves, their role in the recurrence of BV in women is recognized. The presence of BV-associated bacteria on a male partner’s penis, even without causing symptoms for him, can contribute to the disruption of the female partner’s vaginal microbiome. This bacterial exchange during sexual activity can introduce these microorganisms into the vagina, potentially leading to an imbalance.
Research indicates that sexual activity with a male partner, particularly without condoms, can be a factor in BV recurrence for women. Studies suggest that treating the male partner simultaneously with the female partner can reduce the rate of BV recurrence in women. For example, one study found that recurrence dropped from 63% to 35% within 12 weeks when both partners received treatment.
Male Genital Conditions That May Mimic or Be Related
While men cannot get BV, they can experience other genital conditions that present with similar symptoms, which might lead to confusion. Conditions such as non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) or balanitis can cause discharge, irritation, or an unusual odor. NGU is an inflammation of the urethra not caused by gonorrhea, and symptoms in men can include itching, irritation, or discharge from the penis, along with pain during urination. It is often caused by various bacteria and can be sexually transmitted.
Balanitis, an inflammation of the head of the penis, frequently affects uncircumcised males and can result in redness, itching, and sometimes discharge or a foul odor. This condition can stem from fungal infections like yeast (Candida balanitis), bacterial infections, or irritation from hygiene products. Other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis, also cause symptoms such as penile discharge, burning, or itching that could be mistaken for “catching BV”. Men experiencing these symptoms should consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Protecting Yourself and Your Partner
Promoting good sexual health for both partners can help reduce BV recurrence in women. Consistent and correct use of condoms during sexual activity is a recommended practice, as it can help maintain the vaginal microbiome’s balance and reduce the risk of BV. Studies indicate that condom use can reduce the risk of BV by as much as 45% and can increase beneficial Lactobacillus species in the vagina.
Good genital hygiene for both partners is important. For women, this includes washing the vulva with plain water or mild, unscented soap and avoiding harsh products or douching, as douching can disrupt the natural vaginal pH. Open communication between partners about sexual health and any concerning symptoms is beneficial. Seeking prompt medical attention for any unusual genital symptoms ensures proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications and promote health.