Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal condition among women of reproductive age, yet it’s still cloaked in silence. The cycle of symptoms (itching, discharge, odor) and the emotional toll that comes with recurrence can feel frustrating. A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine just flipped the script on what people thought they knew about BV.

The Old Way Isn’t Working

For decades, people have seen BV as something only women dealt with. Treatment has typically focused on prescribing antibiotics to women alone, even though recurrence rates hover around 50 percent within a few months. That’s not just inconvenient, it’s unacceptable.

“This study is a turning point because it challenges the long-held view that bacterial vaginosis is only a women’s issue,” urologist Dr. Martina Ambardjieva said to 21Ninety. “It reframes BV as a shared condition, not just an isolated gynecological problem.”

According to the study, when doctors treated both the woman and her male partner with oral metronidazole and a topical clindamycin cream applied to the penis, BV recurrence dropped by half. That’s major.

He Might Be the Reason Bacterial Vaginosis Keeps Coming Back

What makes this even more powerful is what it reveals about how BV actually works. Even if your partner isn’t showing any symptoms, his body may still be harboring BV-related bacteria, particularly around the foreskin and urethra. So even after you’ve completed your meds and “cleared up,” those bacteria can sneak their way back into your body and start the cycle all over again.

“This silent reinfection cycle is a major reason for high recurrence rates,” Dr. Ambardjieva explained. “Treating both partners breaks that cycle.”

It’s Time to Talk

Conversations about vaginal health can be tricky, even in 2025, but they shouldn’t be.

“Nowadays genital problems are not so hard to talk about,” Dr. Ambardjieva said. “BV is about the balance of bacteria, and both partners can disrupt that balance. When couples approach it as a mutual health concern, the problem can be better solved—and the partners will be closer and full of confidence.”

Although this dual-treatment strategy isn’t yet in official BV treatment guidelines, that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be the norm. Dr. Ambardjieva encourages women to be proactive with their providers, especially when dealing with recurrent BV.

“Women can absolutely bring this study to their healthcare provider and discuss a couple-focused treatment approach,” she said. “Clinicians may be open to it, even before formal guideline updates.”

For Black Women, the Stakes Are Higher

Black women are more likely to experience BV. Yet, medical professionals are less likely to listen when they speak up about their bodies. That’s why self-advocacy isn’t just helpful, it’s essential.

“Come to appointments informed, ask direct questions, and bring up studies like this one when discussing treatment options,” Dr. Ambardjieva said. “And if a provider doesn’t listen or respect your concerns—know you’re justified in finding someone who will.”

BV may not be the most glamorous thing to talk about. However, the real power lies in naming your experience and demanding care that respects your body and our relationships.

Next time BV shows up, know that it’s not just your battle and you don’t have to fight it alone.