Is Bacterial Vaginosis Contagious?

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is not contagious in the traditional sense like a cold or flu. However, sexual activity can increase your risk of developing it. Understanding how BV spreads can help you protect your health.

What Is Bacterial Vaginosis?

BV occurs when there's an imbalance in the natural bacteria in your vagina. Normally, healthy bacteria (lactobacilli) keep things balanced. With BV, harmful bacteria overgrow and outnumber the good bacteria. This isn't caused by a single germ that spreads from person to person.

Can You Get BV From a Partner?

The answer depends on your partner's gender. BV can spread between female sexual partners through direct contact or shared sex toys. Recent studies show that women with female partners have a 60% higher risk of BV.

With male partners, bacterial vaginosis transmission is more complicated. While BV-related bacteria have been found on the penis, research is still ongoing. However, new evidence suggests treating male partners may help prevent BV from coming back.

What Increases Your Risk?

Several factors can disrupt your vaginal bacteria balance and increase BV risk:

• Having new or multiple sexual partners
• Not using condoms during sex
• Douching or using vaginal hygiene products
• Smoking cigarettes

The Bottom Line

While BV isn't contagious like a typical infection, sexual activity does play a role. Is BV contagious between women? Yes, it can spread between female partners. With male partners, the connection is less clear, though sexual activity itself is a risk factor. If you have symptoms like unusual discharge or odor, see your healthcare provider for proper treatment.