Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal condition. It is caused by an imbalance of the natural bacteria present in the vagina. When diagnosed with BV, a frequent question that arises is whether sexual partners also require treatment.
What Is Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis occurs when there is a shift in the vaginal microbiome, specifically an overgrowth of certain anaerobic bacteria that replace the beneficial Lactobacillus species. This condition is not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI), as it can occur even in individuals who are not sexually active. Common symptoms include an unusual vaginal discharge, which may be thin, white or gray, and often has a distinct “fishy” odor, particularly after sex. Some individuals may also experience itching or burning, though many with BV remain asymptomatic.
How BV Relates to Sexual Partners
Sexual activity can influence the vaginal environment and potentially contribute to its development or recurrence. Sex may alter the bacterial balance in the vagina, making bacterial overgrowth more likely. Male partners do not experience BV as their anatomy does not support the condition. However, BV-associated bacteria can be identified on male genitalia, meaning they may carry the bacteria without developing the disease.
Partner Treatment Guidelines
Current guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) generally do not recommend routine treatment for male sexual partners of women with bacterial vaginosis. This recommendation is based on previous research indicating that treating male partners has not consistently shown a benefit in preventing recurrence for the female partner. If a female sexual partner of someone with BV is experiencing symptoms, testing and treatment may be considered, as BV can spread between female sex partners.
A recent randomized controlled trial, published in March 2025, has presented new findings regarding male partner treatment. This study suggests that treating male partners with a combination of oral and topical antibiotics could significantly reduce the recurrence of BV in their female partners. In this trial, women received standard BV treatment, while their male partners also received oral metronidazole and topical clindamycin cream for seven days. This emerging evidence indicates a potential shift in understanding the role of male partners in BV recurrence.
Does Partner Treatment Prevent Recurrence
Historically, treating male partners was not found to reduce the risk of BV recurrence for the female partner. This led to the established guidelines against routine male partner treatment. However, the previously mentioned 2025 study observed a substantial difference in recurrence rates when male partners were treated concurrently. In the study, only 35% of women whose male partners received treatment experienced BV recurrence within 12 weeks, compared to 63% in the group where only the women were treated.
This suggests that reinfection from sexual partners may contribute significantly to the high rates of BV recurrence experienced by many individuals. The findings from this particular study indicate that a combined treatment approach for both partners might offer a more effective strategy for preventing recurrent BV.
Seeking Professional Medical Advice
Given the evolving understanding of bacterial vaginosis and partner involvement, consult a healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment. Self-treatment or relying solely on internet information is not advisable for managing BV. A medical professional can assess individual circumstances, provide appropriate treatment, and offer guidance tailored to specific health needs. Open communication with healthcare providers about symptoms and sexual health concerns is encouraged.