Partner treatment option emerges as bacterial vaginosis is seen as sexually transmissible

Doctors increasingly view bacterial vaginosis (B.V.) as a condition that can spread sexually between partners, prompting new questions about partner notification and treatment options. Research and clinicians now say treating partners can help women beat the condition in the long run, and experts recommend that people with repeated B.V.

infections consider informing regular male partners. Current partner-treatment regimens described by specialists call for both partners to take antibiotics for one week, to abstain from sexual activity during that time, and for male partners to use an oral antibiotic plus a topical antibiotic cream applied twice daily.

Condoms have been shown in studies to help prevent B.V. from developing or recurring, and there is no male test for B.V., so condom use can be a protective step. Partner treatment has been shown to be effective only in closed relationships, and clinicians note that male partners who have other female partners may need to notify them as well.

The topical antibiotic cream can weaken condoms for up to three days. Medical guidelines are still evolving: it is unclear whether treating a partner is warranted for a woman’s first B.V. episode, and studies have not yet proven that simultaneous treatment prevents recurrence in same-sex female couples, though clinicians report anecdotal benefit.

Key Topics

Health, Bacterial Vaginosis, Gardnerella Vaginalis, Partner Treatment, Antibiotics, Condoms