Could Treating Male Partners Help Prevent Recurrent Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)?
- Richard Lorenzo
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
Understanding BV
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is one of the most common vaginal conditions women experience. It occurs when the natural balance of vaginal bacteria shifts, leading to bothersome symptoms such as discharge, odor, and irritation. While antibiotics are effective in the short term, many women struggle with recurrence—sometimes within just weeks of treatment.
At Complete Healthcare in Richland, WA, we understand how frustrating recurrent BV can be. Our goal is to keep patients informed about the latest research so care decisions can be based on both current guidelines and emerging evidence.
Current Guidelines
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has long held that treating male partners does not improve outcomes in women with BV. Their guidance states that male partners generally do not need treatment, and this has shaped the way most physicians manage BV in practice.
New Research on Partner Treatment
Recently, a major international study challenged this long-standing approach. In this trial, women with recurrent BV were treated with standard antibiotics. Still, half of the couples also had the male partner receive treatment—oral metronidazole plus a topical clindamycin cream.
The results were striking:
Women whose partners were treated had recurrence rates around 35% within 12 weeks.
Women whose partners were not treated had recurrence rates around 63%.
This represented a significant reduction in the risk of BV coming back, suggesting that treating both partners may reduce reinfection and help maintain a healthy vaginal environment.
What This Means for Patients
At this time, ACOG’s official recommendation has not changed. Treating male partners is not yet considered a standard of care in the United States. However, the results of this study are important, and more research may soon influence updated guidance.
For women dealing with recurrent BV, these findings open the door to new treatment conversations. If you have had multiple recurrences, discussing these options with your provider may be worthwhile. Shared decision-making is essential—we balance the proven benefits of current therapy with the promise of new approaches.
Our Approach at Complete Healthcare
Our providers—Dr. Richard Lorenzo and Kortney Jones, ARNP—stay current with evolving evidence to offer the most comprehensive care possible. We take time to explain treatment options, listen to your concerns, and individualize recommendations to meet your health needs.
While guideline-based therapy remains the foundation, we are committed to discussing emerging evidence with patients who may benefit from more tailored strategies.
Conclusion
BV is common, but recurrent BV can be disruptive and discouraging. New research suggests that treating male partners could one day become part of routine care, though guidelines have not yet caught up. At Complete Healthcare, we believe knowledge is empowering—and we are here to help you find relief with compassionate, evidence-based care.
Call 509-392-6700 to schedule your consultation today.
Women’s Health and Wellness Care in Richland, WA
