Science Quickly Treating Bacterial Vaginosis as an STI Could Improve Outcomes
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Apr 9, 2025 Catriona Bradshaw, a sexual health medicine professor at Monash University, and Lenka Vodstrcil, a senior research fellow at Melbourne Sexual Health Center, dive into the complexities of bacterial vaginosis (BV). They discuss how BV may act like a sexually transmitted infection, especially after new sexual partners. Their research reveals that treating both partners increases success rates, challenging traditional treatment methods. They also address the stigma surrounding BV and the necessity for improved communication and resources for affected individuals.
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BV: A Potential STI?
- Bacterial vaginosis (BV) affects many people with vaginas, and it involves an overgrowth of harmful bacteria.
- While often treated as a common vaginal infection, new research suggests BV may act like an STI in some cases.
Treating BV Like an STI
- Treating BV as an STI involves recognizing potential transmission between partners.
- New research emphasizes the importance of treating both partners.
What is BV?
- BV is a vaginal microbiome disorder, not necessarily an infection, caused by an imbalance in vaginal bacteria.
- This shift replaces healthy bacteria with various harmful bacteria, forming biofilms and causing a characteristic discharge.