Did you know that more than half of women will experience bacterial vaginosis (BV) at least once in their lifetime—but most won’t talk about it, even with their partner?
BV is one of those things that nobody really prepares you for. You might notice changes in your body that leave you feeling uncomfortable, embarrassed, or even worried about what your partner might think. The truth? BV is incredibly common, and it has nothing to do with hygiene or “cleanliness.”
But here’s the part that doesn’t get talked about enough: your partner’s support can make a huge difference in how you experience BV. When you feel understood and cared for instead of judged or dismissed, the weight of shame disappears—and that’s powerful.
In this blog, we’ll explore four simple yet impactful ways your partner can support you through BV. These aren’t complicated or overwhelming; they’re about empathy, respect, and everyday actions that build trust. Plus, we’ll share how products like Après can play a role in helping you feel more comfortable and confident in your intimate wellness routine.
1. Listen Without Judgement
The first and most important step a partner can take is simply to listen. BV can feel like one of those “don’t tell anyone” conditions, which makes it harder to bring up. Many women stay quiet because they fear embarrassment or judgement.
A supportive partner makes space for the conversation, without rolling their eyes, making a joke, or brushing it off.
Practical ways your partner can show support:
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Letting you talk about your symptoms without offering quick fixes.
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Acknowledging how you feel instead of minimizing it.
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Reassuring you that BV is normal and nothing to feel ashamed of.
By being present and listening, they help replace shame with reassurance.
2. Be Proactive in Daily Comfort
Small gestures mean a lot when you’re dealing with BV. It’s not just about the symptoms—it’s about how you feel in your day-to-day life. A partner who notices and helps with the little things can take the pressure off.
Some simple, proactive ways they can help:
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Picking up probiotics, cotton underwear, or even your favourite herbal tea when you’re not feeling great.
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Understanding if you’d rather skip intimacy while managing symptoms.
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Encouraging stress-reducing habits like exercise, fresh air, or a proper night’s sleep.
And here’s where Après comes in. Using Après after intimacy can help promote comfort, freshness, and peace of mind—something partners can support by making sure you have it stocked at home. It’s a small act that signals: “I care about your comfort and wellbeing.”
3. Support Intimate Health Routines
BV isn’t just about treatment—it’s about prevention and long-term care. Having a partner who respects your routines makes it easier to stay consistent. That might mean being understanding about why you’re skipping sex that day, or even reminding you to drink water when you’re busy.
Ways a partner can support routines:
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Respecting your boundaries when you’re not comfortable being intimate.
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Being open to learning about women’s health (instead of dismissing it as “too much information”).
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Encouraging you to keep up with your wellness rituals, whether that’s using products like Après, eating balanced meals, or simply taking downtime.
What seems small to them—like respecting your choices—can feel monumental to you. It’s these actions that build trust and closeness.
4. Normalise the Conversation
The more we talk about BV, the less power the stigma has. When your partner is willing to have an open, judgement-free conversation about it, it shifts BV from being a “secret problem” to just another part of health that can be managed together.
Ways to normalise BV in your relationship:
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Ask gentle, curious questions instead of avoiding the topic.
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Share that you’re glad they trust you enough to talk about it.
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Avoid jokes or dismissive comments that make light of your experience.
Normalising the conversation doesn’t just help you—it helps break down stigma for every woman. When your partner is comfortable talking about BV, it opens the door to a more honest, connected relationship.
Real Life Story
A close friend once told me she’d hidden her BV symptoms from her partner for years. She thought it was “her problem to solve” and was terrified of being judged. Eventually, she shared what was going on—and instead of reacting badly, her partner simply said, “Thanks for telling me. What can I do to help?”
That one sentence lifted years of shame off her shoulders. It wasn’t about him fixing the issue; it was about showing up, listening, and making her feel less alone. That’s the kind of support that can transform the way women experience BV.
Your Top Questions Answered
Should I tell my partner about BV?
Yes. While it can feel awkward, having their support can make managing BV far less stressful.
Can my partner catch BV?
No, BV isn’t an STI. But intimacy can sometimes trigger flare-ups, which is why it’s helpful to have a partner who’s understanding.
Can products like Après actually help?
Yes. Après is designed to promote freshness and comfort after intimacy, helping support healthy routines that reduce the chance of discomfort returning.
How do I know if BV is recurring?
If your symptoms come back often, it’s a good idea to check in with your healthcare provider. Partner support during that process can help reduce the anxiety around repeat appointments.
Key Takeaways
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BV is common and not something to feel ashamed of.
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Partner support can transform how you experience BV.
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Listening without judgement is the most powerful step.
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Small, practical gestures make a huge difference.
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Après helps support post-intimacy comfort and wellness.
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Respecting health routines builds trust in relationships.
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Normalising conversations takes away the stigma.
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Intimacy breaks during BV are normal and healthy.
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BV is not an STI and doesn’t reflect hygiene.
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Openness and support strengthen relationships long-term.
