New Study Finds Treating Male Partners Significantly Reduces Bacterial Vaginosis Recurrence
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a very common condition, affecting roughly 1 in 3 women.
New Study Finds Treating Male Partners Significantly Reduces Bacterial Vaginosis Recurrence
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common condition affecting one in three reproductive-aged women, with high recurrence rates despite standard treatment. However, a groundbreaking study published in the New England Journal of Medicine (March 2025) has revealed a significant advancement in BV management: treating male partners alongside women drastically lowers the risk of recurrence.
Key Findings: Male Partner Treatment Improves Outcomes
In the open-label, randomized controlled trial led by Dr. Lenka A. Vodstrcil and colleagues, 150 couples participated. Women with BV were split into two groups:
Partner-Treatment Group: Women received standard antimicrobial treatment, and their male partners were treated with a combination of oral metronidazole (400 mg) and 2% clindamycin cream applied twice daily for seven days.
Control Group: Women received standard treatment, but their male partners were not treated.
After 12 weeks, the results were striking:
BV recurrence occurred in 35% of women in the partner-treatment group, compared to 63% in the control group.
Women whose partners received treatment had a 60% lower recurrence rate (1.6 cases per person-year vs. 4.2 in the control group).
The study was halted early because the data and safety monitoring board found that treating women alone was significantly less effective.
Why Does Male Partner BV Treatment Matter?
BV has long been understood as a condition primarily affecting women, but recent research suggests sexual exchange of BV-associated bacteria may contribute to persistent infections. This study provides the most compelling evidence to date that treating male partners disrupts the reinfection cycle, leading to more effective long-term treatment outcomes.
Potential Implications for BV Treatment Guidelines
Currently, BV treatment guidelines focus solely on women. However, given the strong results from this trial, experts may push for updated recommendations to include male partner treatment in BV management. This shift could lead to better long-term cure rates, reducing the frustration and health risks associated with recurrent BV.
Considerations and Next Steps
This study marks an important step forward in recognizing the role of both partners in BV recurrence and could change how healthcare providers approach treatment. If treated as a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and implemented widely, this approach has the potential to improve the quality of life for millions of women worldwide dealing with recurrent BV.
The New England Journal of Medicine study highlights a paradigm shift in BV treatment—one that acknowledges the role of both partners in managing this persistent condition. As research continues, healthcare providers and patients alike will be watching closely to see if these findings lead to broader changes in standard BV treatment protocols.
For those struggling with recurrent BV, discussing partner treatment with a healthcare provider may soon become a key part of a more effective long-term solution.
(Source: Vodstrcil, L. A., Plummer, E. L., Fairley, C. K., et al. (2025). "Male-Partner Treatment to Prevent Recurrence of Bacterial Vaginosis." New England Journal of Medicine, 392, 947-957. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2405404.)
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider or qualified medical professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this blog.
