New clinical trial suggests treating both partners may help prevent bacterial vaginosis recurrence, with a significant reduction in relapse rates compared to women-only treatment groups.
Treating Male Partners Along with Women May Help Stop Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis often returns after treatment, and researchers don’t know why. A new clinical trial suggests that treating the woman plus her male partner may help prevent the syndrome from recurring.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection caused by an imbalance of natural bacteria in the vagina.
To prevent BV, practice good hygiene and maintain a healthy pH balance.
Avoid douching, as it can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria.
Wear breathable underwear and avoid scented soaps or bubble baths.
Regular exercise and a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains also help maintain vaginal health.
Limit sexual partners to reduce the risk of STIs, including BV.
For many women who develop bacterial vaginosis, the syndrome returns weeks or months after treatment. A clinical trial of women in monogamous relationships with male partners found that treating both partners significantly reduced the likelihood of recurrence. When both partners were treated, 35 percent of the women developed bacterial vaginosis again, while in the women-only treatment group, it was 63 percent.
Understanding Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis affects roughly 30 percent of reproductive-aged ‘it’s not the same thing in all people,’ says Caroline Mitchell, director of the Vulvovaginal Disorders Program at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. The syndrome stems from an imbalance in the vagina’s microbiota. In a healthy vagina, Lactobacillus bacteria dominate. In bacterial vaginosis, there’s a decline in Lactobacillus and an overgrowth of certain pathogenic bacteria.
The Challenge of Treating Bacterial Vaginosis
One challenge in treating bacterial vaginosis is that ‘it’s not the same thing in all people,’ says Caroline Mitchell, director of the Vulvovaginal Disorders Program at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. There may be a predominant abundance of a particular pathogenic bacteria or a mix of pathogenic bacteria without a dominant type.
The Impact of Bacterial Vaginosis
Women with bacterial vaginosis can be asymptomatic. Those with symptoms have discharge and vaginal odor. Some women experience irritation, too. Bacterial vaginosis also increases the risk of several gynecological and pregnancy complications, including sexually transmitted infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, and preterm birth.
A New Approach to Preventing Recurrence
The new clinical trial suggests that treating both partners may be an effective way to prevent recurrence. When both partners were treated, 35 percent of the women developed bacterial vaginosis again, compared to 63 percent in the women-only treatment group. This approach builds on past research finding that sexual transmission may account for some repeat episodes of bacterial vaginosis.
The Importance of Treating Bacterial Vaginosis
‘It’s a big deal,’ says Mitchell. ‘People think about this as a nuisance condition — it is more than that. It is very disruptive for people.’ A survey of 62 women who’ve had recurrent bacterial vaginosis found that the condition negatively impacted sexual health for 70 percent, physical health for 68 percent, and mental health for 75 percent.
Conclusion
Treating male partners along with women may help stop bacterial vaginosis. This new approach offers hope for women who have struggled to prevent recurrence of this common and unpleasant vaginal syndrome. While it’s not relevant for all recurrent cases, ‘I think for some people it’s going to be a great tool,’ says Mitchell.
