Is Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) an STI? New Research Says; Maybe!
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is something many women deal with at some point in their lives, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood vaginal health conditions. For years, the common belief was that BV wasn’t sexually transmitted. But new research is challenging that assumption, and the results could change how we think about—and treat—this incredibly common issue.
Let’s break it all down: What is BV, what does the latest science say, and how can you protect your vaginal health?
What Exactly Is Bacterial Vaginosis?
BV happens when there’s an imbalance in the bacteria that naturally live in the vagina. Normally, lactobacilli (the “good” bacteria) keep things in check, but sometimes other bacteria overgrow, leading to BV.
Common symptoms of BV include:
- A fishy-smelling vaginal discharge (especially after sex)
- Thin, grayish or white discharge
- Vaginal itching or irritation
- A burning sensation during urination
However, some women don’t have any noticeable symptoms at all, which makes BV tricky to detect.
The Debate: Is BV Sexually Transmitted?
Traditionally, BV has been classified as a vaginal imbalance rather than a sexually transmitted infection (STI). It’s true that BV can occur in women who aren’t sexually active, which is why it was never officially labeled an STI.
However, a groundbreaking study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found something interesting: When male partners were treated with antibiotics alongside their female partners, the recurrence rate of BV dropped dramatically. Women whose partners were also treated had a 35% recurrence rate—compared to 63% in those whose partners weren’t treated.
This suggests that BV could be spread through heterosexual intercourse, meaning it might have more in common with STIs than previously thought.
What Does This Mean for You?
If BV is sexually transmitted, it means we need to rethink how it’s treated and prevented. Right now, standard treatment involves a short course of antibiotics for the woman—but if her partner isn’t treated, she may just get reinfected. If your BV keeps coming back, it might be worth discussing partner treatment with your healthcare provider.
Tips to Reduce Your Risk of BV Recurrence:
- Use Après after sex: BV often flares up after intercourse because semen can disrupt vaginal pH. Après is designed to absorb excess fluids post-sex, helping you maintain a healthy balance.
- Practice safe sex: Using condoms can help limit the exchange of bacteria that may contribute to BV.
- Limit douching: Douching can wipe out healthy bacteria, making it easier for BV to take hold.
- Consider probiotics: Some studies suggest that taking probiotics or eating yogurt with live cultures can support vaginal health.
Why This Matters for Women’s Health
BV isn’t just an inconvenience—it can have serious health consequences. It’s been linked to:
- Increased risk of STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea
- Higher chances of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Pregnancy complications like preterm birth
If the medical community starts treating BV more like an STI, it could lead to better treatment strategies, fewer recurrences, and improved overall vaginal health.
Final Thoughts: Taking Control of Your Vaginal Health
BV is more common than people realize, and if you’ve dealt with it, you’re not alone. The good news is that emerging research is shedding new light on how we can prevent and treat it more effectively.
If you’re experiencing recurrent BV, it’s worth having a conversation with your doctor about whether partner treatment could help. And don’t forget—using Après as part of your post-sex routine can be a simple way to support vaginal health and prevent unwanted disruptions to your natural balance.
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Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
