Doctors Now Recommend Partner Treatment for Recurring Bacterial Vaginosis

Updated clinical guidance released today recommends treating male partners of women with recurring bacterial vaginosis (BV) with antibiotics, in addition to the woman’s treatment, to significantly improve outcomes.

The American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG) updated its recommendations on 2025-10-17, citing recent data demonstrating the effectiveness of treating both partners – with an oral antibiotic and an antibiotic cream applied directly to the penis – in preventing BV recurrence. BV affects nearly 30 percent of women worldwide, and recurring cases are common, impacting quality of life and often leading to repeated medical visits.

“Partner therapy offers us another avenue for hopefully preventing recurrence and helping people feel better faster,” said Christopher Zahn, chief of clinical practice and health equity and quality at ACOG, in a statement. BV isn’t an infection, but rather a dysbiosis – an imbalance in the natural bacterial communities within the vagina. However, studies have revealed a connection between BV and sexual activity, with penile microbial communities potentially harboring bacteria linked to the condition; understanding bacterial vaginosis symptoms is key to seeking timely care.

Up to 66 percent of women experience BV recurrence after initial treatment, leading to significant discomfort including itching, burning, and unusual vaginal discharge. This new guidance aims to address this high recurrence rate by targeting potential reservoirs of the bacteria in male partners. For more information on women’s health, visit the ACOG website.

Officials stated that ACOG will continue to monitor research and update its guidance as new information becomes available regarding BV prevention and treatment.