Is Bacterial Vaginosis Sexually Transmitted?
BV is not currently classified as a sexually transmitted infection because there are still questions about whether sexual contact transfers the bacteria from one partner to the other. There have been studies that show that men whose female partners have a history of BV can have colonies of the same bacteria on their penis [4].
Additional research suggested that when BV-cause bacteria are present on the penis, it can lead to women developing repeated infections. It's unclear how long a man can carry BV, but one study showed potential effects of the bacteria appearing over the course of 12 months [5].
What Are the Effects of Bacterial Vaginosis in Men?
While BV in men doesn't cause infection or lingering health issues, recurrent BV infections are problematic for women. Not only is BV uncomfortable, but it can also have negative effects during pregnancy, increase the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease, and potentially increase the risk of other STIs [6].
Men may be able to help prevent the spread of the bacteria that cause BV by using safe sex and personal hygiene strategies, including [7]:
- Use condoms during sexual intercourse.
- Limit the number of sexual partners you have.
- Wash your penis with gentle soap and warm water, including beneath the foreskin.
If your partner has recurrent episodes of bacterial vaginosis, talk to your doctor about what else you might be able to do to prevent passing bacteria back and forth. There is some evidence that probiotics or prebiotics can improve the balance of microflora to reduce the risk of BV [8]. Your doctor can help you choose the right supplements for your situation.
