The One About BV

Let’s Talk About BV: Learning Your Body and Why Men Should Be Part of the Conversation

For too long, conversations about vaginal health have been treated as taboo, and that silence has kept many women in the dark about their own bodies. One of the most common and most misunderstood conditions women face is bacterial vaginosis (BV).

Despite being incredibly common, BV still carries an unnecessary stigma that makes women feel ashamed, confused or alone.

It’s time to break that silence. It’s time to normalize the conversation. And it’s definitely time we start talking about the role male partners play in this cycle—especially in monogamous relationships.

What is BV, Really?

BV happens when there’s an imbalance in the natural bacteria found in the vagina. It’s not an STD, and it’s not caused by poor hygiene (a harmful myth that needs to go).

It often shows up as discharge with a fishy odour, irritation, or sometimes no symptoms at all. It can be triggered by things like stress, new sexual partners, certain soaps or even just hormonal changes.

What makes BV frustrating is how often it comes back. Many women go through round after round of antibiotics, only to have symptoms return a few weeks later. The emotional toll of that can be just as heavy as the physical discomfort.

Why Men Need to Be Involved Too

Here’s something many doctors don’t talk about enough: research is showing that male partners, particularly monogamous ones can unknowingly contribute to recurring BV. Even if men don’t show symptoms or test positive for any STI, they can still carry and pass bacteria that disrupt the vaginal microbiome.

That means even if a woman treats BV successfully, if her partner isn’t treated or involved in the conversation, the bacteria imbalance can be reintroduced again and again.

This isn’t about blame. It’s about partnership. If a couple is sharing intimacy, they should also be sharing the responsibility for maintaining sexual health.

Why It’s Time for a Shift

We need more research, more education and more open dialogue. Medical professionals should be routinely informing couples about the possibility of both partners needing treatment for BV. And women should be empowered to speak up, ask questions, and seek out providers who truly listen.

Just like how we normalized conversations around UTIs, yeast infections and even birth control, it’s time to normalize BV and everything that comes with understanding the vaginal microbiome.

Learning and Loving Your Body

The most powerful thing a woman can do is know her own body, pay attention to changes, track symptoms and ask for second opinions. Advocate for treatment that works, not just a prescription that masks symptoms temporarily. And when something feels off—don’t ignore it. You deserve answers and relief, not shame or dismissal.

And to the men in monogamous relationships: support your partner. Learn about BV. Get tested when she does. If she’s struggling with symptoms, don’t disappear—show up. This is part of being a partner, not just sexually but emotionally and mentally, too.

Final Thoughts

BV is not “gross.” It’s not rare. And it’s not your fault. It’s a bacterial imbalance, not a reflection of your cleanliness or worth. When we remove the shame, we make space for healing. And when we bring our partners into the process, we open the door to solutions that last.

Your body is powerful. Get to know it. Listen to it. Advocate for it. And never feel ashamed for wanting to understand it better.