Can Men Spread Bacterial Vaginosis? Understanding the Role of Male Partners

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection affecting approximately one in three reproductive-aged women worldwide ¹. While traditionally considered a disruption of the vaginal bacterial balance, recent research suggests a potential role for male partners in the recurrence of BV. This has led to discussions about whether men can transmit the bacteria and whether treating male partners could improve outcomes for women.

What is Bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis occurs when the balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted, leading to an overgrowth of certain anaerobic bacteria ². The vagina naturally contains a mix of bacteria, including beneficial lactobacilli. When this balance is disturbed, symptoms like a fishy odor, changes in vaginal discharge, and itching can develop. BV is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but it is associated with an increased risk of acquiring one ².

Can Men Get Bacterial Vaginosis?

Men cannot get bacterial vaginosis because the infection specifically affects the vaginal environment ². The penis does not have the same delicate bacterial balance as the vagina. However, men can carry bacteria associated with BV on their bodies.

Can Men Spread BV to Their Partners?

The question of whether men can spread BV is complex. While men don’t experience the infection themselves, research suggests they may act as carriers. A 2015 study found that uncircumcised men with multiple female sexual partners were more likely to carry BV-associated bacteria on their penises, potentially increasing their partner’s risk of infection ². Another study in 2013 indicated that men with a history of nongonococcal urethritis were too more likely to carry these bacteria ².

Male Partner Treatment: A Growing Trend

Due to the high recurrence rate of BV – with over half of women experiencing a repeat infection within six months of treatment – some healthcare providers are exploring the possibility of treating male partners alongside female patients ¹. A recent study published in The Recent England Journal of Medicine showed promising results when both partners received antibiotic treatment, leading to a significant reduction in BV recurrence at the three-month follow-up ¹.

In northwest London, some sexual health specialists are cautiously introducing antibiotic treatment, including antibiotic ointment for the penis, to male partners of women with recurrent BV ⁴.

Current Guidelines and Future Research

Current UK guidelines, last revised in 2012, do not recommend treating male partners for BV. However, these guidelines are under review to incorporate recent research findings ⁴. Some experts caution that larger studies are needed to definitively determine the benefits of partner treatment and to ensure that the advantages outweigh potential risks.

Is BV a Sexually Transmitted Infection?

The classification of BV as a sexually transmitted infection remains a topic of debate. While BV is not traditionally considered an STI, its association with sexual activity and potential links to other STIs and reproductive health issues (like infertility and premature birth) are prompting some to reconsider its categorization ².

Key Takeaways

• Men cannot get bacterial vaginosis, but they may carry bacteria associated with the infection.
• Research suggests men can potentially transmit BV-related bacteria to their female partners.
• Treating male partners alongside female patients is being explored as a way to reduce BV recurrence.
• Current guidelines do not recommend routine male partner treatment, but this may change as more research becomes available.
• The classification of BV as a sexually transmitted infection is still under discussion.