• Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Can Men Get Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)?

Medically reviewed and edited by Theresa Vergara, CNP-BC

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection that 1 in 3 women will experience in their lifetime. BV is caused by an overgrowth of certain bacteria – usually Gardnerella vaginalis – that occurs because of an imbalance in the vaginal microbiome.

The cause of this imbalance can be douching, using certain scented soaps or feminine products, or having a new or multiple sexual partners.

BV, although being one of the most common vaginal infections, is typically one of the most misunderstood and misdiagnosed ones as well. Experts are still learning about all the causes of BV and its effects on the vagina.

A common misconception about BV is that men contract it. The penis does not have the same balance of bacteria as the vagina, and the penile microbiome is far less delicate and sensitive to “bad” bacteria.

Although BV does not affect men directly, men do play a large role in the transmission of bacterial vaginosis and Gardnerella vaginalis.

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BV Transmission: Men's Role

While BV is not considered a sexually transmitted infection, women who are sexually active are more likely to contract it. The natural bacteria in the vagina is disrupted during penetrative sex, and infection can occur after intercourse.

Women who have sex with women are at the highest risk of spreading and contracting BV through intercourse. Women who have sex with men cannot pass their infection to their male partners because the bacteria that causes BV already exists in the penile microbiome.

BV only negatively affects the vaginal microbiome, as Gardnerella vaginalis is a “healthy” bacteria for men.

Men are only at risk of potentially spreading BV-related bacteria to their female partner(s).

Good hygiene practices, such as regular hand washing and maintaining clean genitals, can minimize the risk of bacterial transmission after intercourse.

Male BV-Like Conditions

While men cannot contract BV per se, they can experience similar symptoms or conditions caused by an imbalance in their own genital microbiota.

Men who experience symptoms similar to those of BV may have another condition.

Balanitis

Balanitis is an infection to the penis most often caused by issues of hygiene, especially in uncircumcised men. The infection is caused by an overgrowth of fungi that materialize in the humid environment under the uncircumcised penile foreskin. Symptoms include:

• Swollen, itchy, red penis

• Pain during urination

• Thick discharge from under the foreskin

• Bleeding around the foreskin

• An unpleasant smell in the area of the penis

Many of these symptoms closely resemble symptoms that a woman might experience during a BV infection. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, LifeMD can help. Make an appointment to talk to a licensed medical professional who can help diagnose your condition and provide you with appropriate treatment.

Urethritis and STIs

Urethritis is an infection of the lower urinary tract that’s most common in men. This type of infection can be caused by various different STIs, and is classified as either gonococcal (GCU) or nongonococcal (NGU).

GCU is caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhea, and is the leading cause of urethritis. NGU is a result of other sexually transmitted infections, the most prevalent being Chlamydia trachomatis.

In rare cases, urethritis can be caused by trauma or irritation to the penis.

• Some symptoms of urethritis include:

• Pain during urination

• Pain during sexual intercourse

• Itchiness at the tip of the urethra

• Penile discharge – pus or blood

• Pelvic pain

Practicing safe sex with condoms is the best way to avoid contracting an infection like urethritis or an STI that can lead to urethritis or any other complication.

Similarly, safe sex through use of condoms is the best way to protect a female partner against BV.

Men's Role in BV Prevention

There are a few preventive steps men can take to help their female partners avoid BV. Some vital preemptive strategies include:

• Maintaining good hygiene practices for both men and women, as it can limit harmful bacteria from entering the penile and vaginal microbiomes.

• Cleaning sex toys and avoiding possible irritants like perfumed lubricants, condoms, and soaps are all essential ways to help prevent BV.

• Using unscented or unflavored condoms, as it is the most effective way to prevent BV. A study published in Sexually Transmitted Diseases found that men with urethritis were likely to carry the bacteria that causes BV on their penis.

• Getting tested for STIs regularly is pivotal in not passing infections to sexual partners.

• Regular communication and mutual understanding between sexual partners. This encourages healthy practices for preventing BV and other infections.

• Seeking medical advice when necessary. If you or your partner is experiencing any symptoms that you suspect are BV, make an appointment with LifeMD to get BV treatment online.

Where Can I Learn More About BV?

Whether you are a man looking for ways to support your female partner, or a woman who wants to learn more about taking care of your body to protect yourself against infections like BV, LifeMD has the resources to help you.

A doctor or nurse practitioner can assist you by providing information about bacterial vaginosis and writing you a prescription, if needed — all from the privacy and comfort of your own home.

If you’re concerned about a possible BV infection, be sure to seek advice from a licensed medical professional. Head over to LifeMD to make a video appointment.

Theresa Vergara, CNP-BC

Theresa is a Certified Nurse Practitioner with a Masters in Human Nutrition and a Doctorate in Nursing from Columbia University. Theresa has treated hospitalized patients and helped patients manage chronic and acute conditions.

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