Prone to Bacterial Vaginosis? Here’s Why It’s Not Your Fault:
Ever feel like BV keeps coming back no matter what you do? You’re not alone. Some women are simply more prone to bacterial vaginosis—and it's got nothing to do with being dirty, careless, or promiscuous.
Introduction:
Let’s clear something up from the start: getting BV doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong.
Just like some people catch colds more easily, some women are more vulnerable to imbalances in their vaginal microbiome. And yep, it can be super frustrating when it feels like you’re doing all the right things—but the symptoms return.
In this blog, we break down exactly what makes someone more likely to get BV, what to watch out for, and how to protect your balance without going overboard.
Quick Recap: What Is BV?
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an overgrowth of “bad” bacteria in the vagina that throws off your natural pH balance. It’s not an STI, and it’s not contagious—but it can feel like a recurring nightmare for some women.
Common symptoms include:
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A fishy or sour smell, especially after sex or during your period
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Thin, grey or watery discharge
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A feeling of irritation or just being “off”
But what causes that bacterial imbalance to begin with? And why does it keep happening to you?
So…What Makes Someone More Prone to BV?
Here’s what research (and real-world experience) tells us:
1. Sex Without a Condom
Semen is alkaline, while the vagina thrives in a more acidic environment. When the two mix without a barrier (aka a condom), it can disrupt the pH and make it easier for harmful bacteria to multiply.
You’re not “catching” BV from your partner—it’s a reaction to fluids. Even oral sex can sometimes shift the balance, depending on your body’s sensitivity.
2. Menstrual Blood
Just like semen, menstrual blood is more alkaline than your vagina’s natural state. That’s why so many women notice BV flaring up after their period.
Using a pH-balancing wipe (like Après) after your cycle can help remove leftover fluids and reduce the risk of imbalance.
3. Over washing or Using Harsh Products
Think you're keeping things clean by scrubbing or using scented soaps down there? Think again.
Over washing strips away the good bacteria, leaving your vagina vulnerable to the bad kind. This includes:
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Scented soaps
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Vaginal douches
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Bubble baths
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Perfumed wipes or sprays
Your vagina is self-cleaning. The less you interfere, the better.
4. Multiple Sexual Partners (Or a New One)
It’s not about the number—it’s about exposure to different bacterial ecosystems. Every partner has a unique microbiome, and your body may react to new bacteria even if everything is consensual and safe.
This doesn’t mean BV is an STI—it just means your vaginal environment is adapting, and sometimes it overcorrects.
5. Tight Clothing and Synthetic Underwear
Breathability matters. Tight leggings, synthetic underwear, and anything that traps moisture can create a warm, low-oxygen environment where bad bacteria love to thrive.
Try switching to cotton underwear, and skip underwear overnight when you can. Your vagina needs to breathe too.
6. Antibiotic Use
Antibiotics don’t discriminate. While they’re great at wiping out infection, they also kill your good bacteria—including the ones that protect your vagina. That can lead to recurring BV shortly after finishing a round.
If you’re on antibiotics, consider probiotics or ask your doctor about ways to protect your vaginal flora.
7. Smoking
Studies show that smokers are more likely to develop BV. Nicotine and other chemicals can impact your immune system and the vaginal microbiome—making it harder for your body to maintain balance.
Quitting smoking isn’t easy—but it can make a huge difference to your overall and vaginal health.
8. Hormonal Shifts
Some women notice BV flares before or after their period, during pregnancy, or even around ovulation. That’s because hormones influence:
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Vaginal pH
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Cervical mucus production
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Immune responses
It’s why some women just seem more prone than others—it’s literally in their biology.
Real Talk: Women Who’ve Been There
Jess, 32
“BV was my unwanted plus-one after every new relationship. Now I use a pH-balanced wipe after sex and it’s made a huge difference.”
Meghan, 27
“I was douching because I thought it would help. Turns out I was making it worse. Just warm water now—lesson learned.”
Rach, 38
“I get BV after my period like clockwork. I’ve stopped using tampons, switched to organic pads, and added Après. No issues for three months.”
What You Can Do to Stay in Balance
If you’re more prone to BV, don’t worry—you can absolutely reduce your chances of it coming back. Here’s how:
✅ Use Condoms
They protect more than just against STIs—they also shield your pH from disruption.
✅ Avoid Scented Products
Stick with warm water or gentle, unscented cleansers made for intimate areas.
✅ Support Your Microbiome
Consider probiotics (oral or vaginal), especially after antibiotics or hormonal shifts.
✅ Use Après
After sex or your period, Après helps remove fluids that mess with your pH—without drying you out or stripping your good bacteria.
✅ Wear Breathable Clothing
Think: cotton undies, looser fits, and ditching underwear overnight when possible.
Key Takeaways
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Some women are naturally more prone to BV—thanks to biology, hormones, or lifestyle.
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Sex, period blood, antibiotics, and over washing are common triggers.
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You can reduce flare-ups with simple habits like using condoms, switching to gentle products, and trying supportive products like Après.
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If it keeps coming back, see a GP or women’s health specialist. It’s not in your head—and it’s fixable.
References
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Jean Hailes for Women’s Health
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Healthline – BV Risk Factors
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Cleveland Clinic – Causes of Bacterial Vaginosis
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Australian Government Health Direct
🛒 Want to Stop the Cycle?
Après is your go-to product after sex, your period, or even a sweaty day.
It helps restore balance and prevent infection—without stripping your natural defenses.
Shop Now →
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