Is Bacterial Vaginosis an STD? (And Can I Give It to Someone?)

😳 BV and Sex: Let’s Clear This Up

If you’ve ever gotten bacterial vaginosis (BV), one of the first things you might’ve wondered is, “Did I catch this from someone?” or “Can I pass this to my partner?”

It’s a totally fair question—and the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. BV is *not* technically an STD, but it *is* influenced by your sex life.

Let’s break it down in plain language so you know what’s going on and what to do next.

🦠 So, What *Is* BV, Exactly?

BV happens when there’s an imbalance in the vaginal microbiome. The good bacteria (like Lactobacillus) take a back seat, and the less friendly ones multiply. This messes with your pH and brings on symptoms like:

• Fishy odor (especially after sex)
  
• Thin, grayish discharge
  
• Mild itching or irritation
  
• Burning when you pee

It’s super common and super annoying—but not something you can only get from sex.

❓Is BV an STD?

Short answer: No, BV is not considered a sexually transmitted disease.

But—and this is a big but—it *is* associated with sexual activity. BV is more common if you:

• Have a new or multiple sex partners
  
• Don’t use condoms
  
• Have sex with other women (BV can spread between partners regardless of gender)

Basically, you don’t have to get BV from sex, but sex can make you more likely to get it.

🤝 Can I Give It to Someone?

While you can’t technically ‘give’ BV like you’d give someone the flu, the bacteria imbalance in your vagina *can* be shared—especially with female partners or through unprotected sex.

Some studies show that partners of people with BV can carry similar bacteria. This can mean recurring infections if both people aren’t treated or careful.

Bottom line: There’s no official rule saying partners need treatment, but if your BV keeps coming back after sex, talk to your healthcare provider about it.

🛡️ How to Protect Yourself (and Them)

• Use condoms or dental dams, especially with new or multiple partners
  
• Avoid douching and scented soaps
  
• Pee after sex (yes, it helps balance things out!)
  
• Try vaginal probiotics to support good bacteria
  
• Consider boric acid suppositories (not during pregnancy)
  
• Communicate! If your partner has BV-like symptoms, they may need to talk to their provider too

🚫 Alcohol Alert (Again!)

If you’re prescribed Metronidazole or Tinidazole to treat BV, avoid alcohol until 48 hours after your last dose. Mixing the two can cause severe nausea, cramps, and vomiting. Not worth it.

💬 TL;DR: BV Isn’t an STD, But Sex Can Be a Factor

You didn’t do anything wrong, and you’re not ‘unclean.’ BV is just a super common, super frustrating vaginal condition.

Is it an STD? No.
Can it be triggered or worsened by sex? Yes.
Can you reduce your risk with the right habits and awareness? Absolutely.

You deserve to feel confident and clear about what’s going on in your body. So ditch the shame, ask the questions, and get the care you need. 💖

📥 Helpful Downloads

• BV + Sex 101 Fact Sheet
  
• Conversation Starter: Talking to Your Partner About BV
  
• Prevention Checklist