Bacterial Vaginosis: What Women and Partners Need to Know

Commentary07/28/26 Christina Muzny, MD, MSPH, Professor of Medicine, Epidemiology, and Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham; Medical Director of the UAB ID Vaginitis Clinic and Sexual Health Research Clinic; Scientist, for UAB Center for Clinical and Translational Research

Bacterial vaginosis is the most common vaginal infection in women worldwide. Yet doctors continue to understand more about the condition, and women often have questions about its causes, symptoms, treatments, and more. Here’s a closer look at what women need to know about bacterial vaginosis.

1. The cause of bacterial vaginosis is not known

Bacterial vaginosis is a shift in the balance of bacteria in the vagina. The amount of “good” protective bacteria decreases while “bad” bacteria increase.

What causes that imbalance is not well understood. Until recently, bacterial vaginosis has not been considered a sexually transmitted infection, but it seemed to be associated with some aspects of sexual activity. However, a growing body of research points to a new understanding of bacterial vaginosis and a shift to considering it a sexually transmitted infection.

Some women may wonder if bacterial vaginosis is caused by personal hygiene, wearing certain clothes, or using certain products. These are myths. Some factors that do seem to increase the risk of developing recurrent bacterial vaginosis include nicotine use, vaginal douching, and use of a copper intrauterine device (IUD).

2. Recurring bacterial vaginosis is common

The primary symptom of bacterial vaginosis is vaginal discharge that is usually white or gray, thin, and has a fishy odor. Treatment typically consists of antibiotics taken either by mouth or as a medicated gel or cream applied inside the vagina. During treatment, women should refrain from sexual activity to avoid getting re-infected before treatment is complete. Also, some medicated vaginal creams used to treat bacterial vaginosis weaken condoms and diaphragms.

When treated, bacterial vaginosis usually resolves in a few days but commonly recurs. In fact, the recurrence rate is 60% to 80% after initial treatment. If it recurs often, antibiotics may have to be taken for several weeks or months.

For women with recurring instances of bacterial vaginosis, research shows it is possible that male partners may have the bacterial-vaginosis-associated bacteria. In these cases, doctors may recommend that long-term partners seek similar treatment to eliminate bacteria. Although there is less research about whether female partners can pass bacterial vaginosis to each other, if there are two female partners and one has bacterial vaginosis, it’s a good idea for her partner to also be evaluated.

3. Bacterial vaginosis can cause complications

Bacterial vaginosis is associated with serious potential complications if untreated. Complications can include pelvic inflammatory disease and, for pregnant women, infection of the membranes around the fetus (intra-amniotic infection), preterm labor and delivery, and infections of the uterus after delivery or after an abortion.

Another important aspect of bacterial vaginosis to consider is the mental health impact on women, particularly the impact of recurrent bacterial vaginosis. The condition can be unpleasant and stressful, and it can take a lot of time and other resources to receive medical attention and treatment.

4. At-home treatments are not recommended

Women may be tempted to use non-prescription remedies such as probiotics, yogurt, apple cider vinegar, garlic, douching, or boric acid to treat bacterial vaginosis. However, research has not found these to be effective treatment or prevention for bacterial vaginosis, and applying substances to the vagina may cause irritation of the tissue.

In short: Home remedies and over-the-counter treatments are not recommended for bacterial vaginosis; they are not effective and may make things worse.

5. Regular checkups are essential

Rather than pursuing at-home remedies, the best approach to diagnosing and treating bacterial vaginosis is to see a healthcare professional as soon as possible. This should be part of or in addition to routine exams and other preventive care. The doctor can help discuss a treatment plan as well as talk about potential next steps for conversations with partners and preventing future instances of the condition.

To learn more about bacterial vaginosis, visit The Manuals page or the Quick Facts on the topic.