Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection. Many people still ask, can men get bacterial vaginosis or carry the germs linked to it? Men cannot develop BV in the same way as women, because BV affects the vagina and the vaginal microbiome. But men can carry Gardnerella vaginalis on the penis, which can affect the penile microbiome and cause a penile microbiome imbalance. 

This can play a part in recurrent BV and BV recurrence causes in their female partners. Learning how BV spreads between partners, how the penile microbiome and vaginal microbiome are linked, and which male BV symptoms are really other problems is essential if you want to lower the risk of repeated infections.

This guide explains the relationship between men and BV in clear, evidence-based language. It looks at BV in men and what causes BV in sexually active couples. It covers whether men can carry Gardnerella, whether men can pass BV to women, how male partners can shift the balance of lactobacilli and anaerobic bacteria, and how this can lead to recurrent BV.

It also explains the difference between BV and male conditions such as balanitis or urethritis, when STI screening is appropriate, the simple steps couples can take to prevent reinfection, how to stop BV from coming back, and when male partner BV treatment or antibiotics for men might be needed.

What Is Bacterial Vaginosis BV

Bacterial vaginosis, or BV, is a vaginal infection that happens when the vaginal microbiome becomes unbalanced. The vagina usually is full of healthy bacteria called lactobacilli, which help keep the area slightly acidic and protected. When these good bacteria drop, anaerobic bacteria like Gardnerella vaginalis can proliferate. This can lead to symptoms such as unusual discharge and a pungent smell.

BV is very common in sexually active women, and about one in three will deal with it at some point. It is not classed as an STI, but sexual activity can change the vaginal microbiome. This means it can raise the chance of getting BV or having recurrent BV. It also links to what causes BV in sexually active couples, because shared bacteria can disrupt the balance.

Several things can increase the risk of BV, including:

• A new sexual partner or more than one partner
  
  
• Natural changes in the vaginal microbiome
  
  
• Scented soaps or vaginal products
  
  
• Douching or internal washing
  
  
• Tight clothing or too much moisture
  
  

These factors can make it easier for Gardnerella vaginalis and other anaerobic bacteria to grow. When this happens, the balance of the vagina changes, and BV symptoms can start.

 

Can Men Get BV

Men cannot get bacterial vaginosis because BV only happens inside the vaginal microbiome, which men do not have. BV develops when the balance of bacteria in the vagina changes from healthy lactobacilli to higher levels of anaerobic bacteria such as Gardnerella vaginalis.

Men can still play a part in how BV spreads between partners. The skin on the penis can carry Gardnerella vaginalis without causing infection or pain in men. This is called colonisation, not illness. During sexual activity, this bacterium can move from the penis to the vagina. This can increase the chance of BV or recurrent BV in a partner who already has a sensitive vaginal microbiome.

Knowing the difference between infection and colonisation is essential. Men do not become unwell from BV, but they can affect the vaginal microbiome of a partner through sexual contact, hygiene habits, and condom use. This is one reason BV in men is often linked to questions like can men carry Gardnerella, can men pass BV to women, and what causes BV in sexually active couples.

Can Men Carry Gardnerella Vaginalis

Yes! Gardnerella can live on the penile skin even though it does not cause illness in men. This is called colonisation, not infection, because it does not cause illness in men. The bacteria can live on the surface of the penis, especially in moist areas or under the foreskin, without causing pain or irritation. This is one reason people ask about BV in men and Gardnerella in men, even though men do not develop the condition.

Even though this does not harm male health, it can affect a partner. If a woman is already prone to recurrent BV or has a sensitive vaginal microbiome, the bacteria on the penis can increase the chance of the vaginal microbiome becoming unbalanced again. This links to BV recurrence, how BV spreads between partners, and how men can pass BV to women.

Colonisation is more likely when:

• Genital hygiene is poor
  
  
• Condoms are not used
  
  
• Sex toys are shared without cleaning
  
  
• There are new partners or more than one partner
  
  

Lowering the risk does not mean treating men for BV, because men cannot develop it. Instead, prevention focuses on good genital hygiene, safe sex habits, and STI screening when needed. These steps help reduce bacterial transfer and support women trying to prevent BV from coming back.

How BV Transmits? Men’s Role

New research shows that the male partner can play an essential part in how Bacterial Vaginosis spreads between partners and why some women get recurrent BV. BV primarily affects the vaginal microbiome, but the penile microbiome can also harbour BV-associated bacteria. This includes Gardnerella vaginalis, which can lead to BV recurrence in couples who are sexually active.

Key findings

• An extensive study found that when male partners were treated with antibiotics, BV came back less often in women, 35% with treatment compared with 63% without.
  
  
• Researchers have found BV-associated bacteria on male genital skin and in the urethra, demonstrating clear microbiota concordance in monogamous couples.
  
  
• Some specialist guidelines now suggest that in cases of repeated BV, doctors may consider treating male partners to help break the cycle of infection..
  
  

What this means in real life

BV is not classed everywhere as an STI, but how BV spreads between partners is strongly linked to sexual activity. Men can carry Gardnerella without symptoms, so even partners who feel healthy may still pass BV-linked bacteria to women. This explains why people often ask, Can men pass BV to women and Can men get bacterial vaginosis?

For couples dealing with what causes BV in sexually active couples, it can help to look at male factors such as hygiene, the penile microbiome, condom use, and possible male partner BV treatment if advised by a doctor.

Helpful steps include:

• Using condoms
  
  
• Washing the genital area with plain water, avoiding scented products
  
  
• Cleaning sex toys before and after use
  
  
• Talking openly about genital health and STI screening
  
  

Limits of current research

• Most studies focus on monogamous heterosexual couples, so there is less information for other types of relationships.
  
  
• Treating male partners is not yet standard practice in many countries.
  
  
• Even with treatment, about 35 percent of women in the main trial still had BV again. This means male factors matter, but they are not the only reason BV returns.
  
  
• Understanding the role of the penile microbiome and Gardnerella in men can make it easier to reduce the risk of BV coming back and support partners trying to stop BV from coming back.
  
  

Stage	What Happens	Why It Matters
1. Vaginal microbiome becomes unbalanced	Healthy lactobacilli drop, and anaerobic bacteria such as Gardnerella vaginalis grow too much	This imbalance is how BV starts
2. BV-linked bacteria increase	Gardnerella and other anaerobic bacteria become the main bacteria in the vagina	These bacteria can move between partners during sex
3. Bacteria transfer to the penis	Men may carry Gardnerella on the penis after sexual contact	This is colonisation, not infection, and men do not get BV
4. Penile microbiome holds BV-linked bacteria	The bacteria stay on the penile skin or under the foreskin	Colonised men may play a part in the recurrence of BV  causes
5. Reinfection cycle in female partners	Bacteria are passed back to the vagina during sex	This can lead to recurrent BV, especially in women who are prone to imbalance
6. Reducing transmission	Using condoms, good hygiene, cleaning sex toys, and STI screening	These steps help stop BV from coming back and support both partners

Male Symptoms Often Confused With BV

Genital symptoms in men are often due to other conditions that can mimic BV-related discomfort. These symptoms usually come from other conditions such as irritation, inflammation, or infections. Knowing the difference helps explain why some men think they might have BV.

Below are the most common conditions in men mistaken for BV, along with their typical signs and causes.

Balanitis

Balanitis is swelling and irritation of the head of the penis. It is more common in men who are not circumcised.

Typical symptoms:

• Redness or swelling
  
  
• Itching or burning
  
  
• Thick discharge under the foreskin
  
  
• Unpleasant smell
  
  
• Pain when urinating
  
  

Common causes:

• Poor genital hygiene
  
  
• Yeast overgrowth
  
  
• Irritation from fragranced products
  
  
• Allergic reactions
  
  
• Bacterial infection
  
  

Good hygiene, avoiding scented soaps, and wearing loose, breathable underwear can help reduce the risk.

Urethritis

Urethritis is inflammation of the urethra. It is often linked to sexually transmitted infections and may need STI screening.

Possible symptoms:

• Burning or pain when urinating
  
  
• Penile discharge, clear, cloudy, or pus-like
  
  
• Itching at the opening of the urethra
  
  
• Lower tummy or pelvic discomfort
  
  
• Pain during sexual activity
  
  

Urethritis needs proper assessment so the right treatment can be given.

Yeast Infections in Men

Men can get yeast infections, though it's less common than in women.

Common signs:

• Redness
  
  
• Itching
  
  
• White or clumpy discharge
  
  
• Sore or irritated skin
  
  

Moisture, antibiotics, diabetes, and skin irritation can increase the risk.

Prostatitis

Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate gland.

Symptoms may include:

• Pelvic pain
  
  
• Trouble urinating
  
  
• Pressure between the scrotum and rectum
  
  
• Discomfort during ejaculation
  
  

Prostatitis is sometimes confused with urethritis because the symptoms can overlap.

Contact Dermatitis and Irritation

Skin irritation in the genital area can feel similar to BV-related discomfort. This is often caused by products or materials that come into contact with the skin.

Common triggers:

• Scented soaps
  
  
• Lubricants
  
  
• Certain condom materials
  
  
• Detergents or fabric softeners
  
  

Avoiding heavy fragrances and using gentle products can support overall comfort.

Condition	What It Is	Key Symptoms	Main Cause
Balanitis	Irritation of the penis head	Redness, itching, odour, discharge	Poor hygiene, yeast, irritation
Urethritis	Inflammation of the urethra	Burning when urinating, discharge	Often linked to STIs
Yeast Infection	Fungal infection	Itching, redness, white discharge	Moisture, antibiotics, and diabetes
Prostatitis	Inflammation of the prostate	Pelvic pain, difficulty urinating	Infection or prostate irritation
Contact Dermatitis	Skin irritation	Itching, redness, burning	Scented products or materials

Comparison Table: BV in Women vs Conditions in Men

 

Feature	BV in Women	BV in Men
Can they get BV	Yes, BV affects the vaginal microbiome	No, men cannot get BV.
Main cause	Imbalance of vaginal bacteria, fewer lactobacilli, growth of Gardnerella vaginalis	Irritation, infection, inflammation, yeast, or STIs
Typical symptoms	Thin grey or white discharge, pungent smell, burning, or discomfort	Redness, itching, discharge, pain when urinating, unpleasant smell
Conditions confused with BV	Yeast infections, some STIs, trichomoniasis	Balanitis, urethritis, prostatitis, yeast infections
Is Gardnerella involved	Yes, it is a key BV bacteria	Men may carry Gardnerella, but do not get BV
Treatments	Antibiotics after proper diagnosis	Treatment depends on the condition, for example, antifungals or antibiotics
Risk of recurrence	High, especially without partner factors addressed	Men do not get recurrence, but may contribute to BV coming back in partners
Role in transmission	Symptoms appear when the vaginal microbiome shifts	Men can carry bacteria and pass them during sexual activity

Do Men Play a Role in BV Recurrence

Men cannot get BV, but research shows they can affect the chance of BV coming back in women. This occurs due to bacterial transfer, changes in the penile microbiome, and sexual practices that can disrupt the vaginal microbiome.

Studies have found that Gardnerella vaginalis and other BV-linked bacteria can live on the skin of the penis, especially in uncircumcised men or in areas that stay moist. This does not make men ill, but the bacteria can be passed back to the vagina during sexual activity. This helps explain BV recurrence and how BV spreads between partners.

What the research shows

•  A large trial found that when male partners were treated with antimicrobials, BV recurrence in women dropped from 63 percent to 35 percent.
  
  
• Scientists have found Gardnerella in men, both on the genital skin and inside the urethra.
  
  
• Microbiome studies show that heterosexual partners often share similar bacteria, which supports the idea of bacterial exchange.
  
  
• Updated guidance suggests that in cases of recurrent BV, partner-focused care may help some couples.
  
  

What this means for couples

• Men can carry BV-linked bacteria even when they feel healthy.
  
  
• Sexual activity can pass these bacteria back to the vagina.
  
  
• Using condoms, good genital hygiene, and cleaning sex toys can help stop BV from coming back.
  
  
• In stubborn or frequent cases, it may help to look at both partners rather than only treating the woman.
  
  

What this does not mean

• Men do not need BV treatment unless they have another condition
  
  
• Men are not infected with BV.
  
  
• BV is not classed as an STI, but sexual contact still plays a role in spreading the bacteria linked to it.
  
  

How Men Can Help Reduce BV Risk in Partners

Certain habits on the male side can lower the chance of vaginal imbalance and support healthier outcomes for partners. Since men can carry Gardnerella vaginalis on the penile skin, good habits can support a healthy vaginal microbiome and reduce the causes of BV recurrence.

Below are simple and effective ways men can help.

1. Maintain Good Genital Hygiene

Regular cleaning helps reduce bacteria on the penis, especially under the foreskin.

Helpful habits:

• Wash the penis each day with warm water
  
  
• Avoid scented soaps, shower gels, and antibacterial washes
  
  
• Gently clean under the foreskin if uncircumcised
  
  
• Dry the area well after washing or exercise
  
  

Good hygiene lowers the risk of bacterial transfer and supports partner comfort.

2. Use Condoms Consistently

Condoms help protect the vaginal microbiome and reduce the transfer of Gardnerella vaginalis.

Condoms limit:

• The exchange of genital bacteria
  
  
• Semen exposure, which can change vaginal pH
  
  
• Irritation caused by friction
  
  

Unflavoured and unscented condoms are best for reducing irritation

3. Clean Sex Toys Properly

Sex toys can pass bacteria between partners if not washed well.

Cleaning tips:

• Use warm water and mild, unscented soap
  
  
• Do not share toys unless they are washed between uses
  
  
• Use condoms on toys when needed and replace them between partners
  
  

Keeping toys clean supports genital health for both partners.

4. Avoid Irritating Products

Products with fragrance or chemicals can upset the vaginal microbiome.

Men and women should avoid:

• Scented lubricants
  
  
• Scented condoms
  
  
• Scented body washes
  
  
• Talcum powders
  
  
• Deodorising sprays
  
  

These can irritate the vagina and increase the chance of recurrent BV.

5. Consider STI Screening When Needed

STIs such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea can irritate and may affect the risk. Screening helps rule out infections that can mimic BV.

6. Communicate Openly With Your Partner

Talking about symptoms, hygiene, and habits helps couples manage BV more easily. Sharing concerns early can prevent repeated problems.

7. Seek Medical Advice When Necessary

If BV recurs or either partner has symptoms such as irritation or discharge, seeking medical guidance is essential.

When Men Should Seek Medical Advice

Any persistent irritation, discharge, or discomfort in men should be assessed so the correct condition is treated. Getting help early can also support partners dealing with recurrent BV.

Men should seek advice if they have:

• Redness, swelling, or itching of the penis, which may be balanitis, irritation, or a yeast infection.
  
  
• Penile discharge, whether clear, white, yellow, or pus-like.
  
  
• Burning or pain when urinating, which can be linked to urethritis or inflammation.
  
  
• Pelvic or lower tummy discomfort.
  
  
• Symptoms after a new sexual partner may mean they need STI screening.
  
  
• Ongoing irritation that does not improve, which may be dermatitis or an allergic reaction.
  
  
• A partner who keeps getting BV, as shared bacteria can contribute to repeat episodes.
  
  

You can arrange an online consultation with Mobi Doctor for guidance and symptom assessment.

Conclusion

Men cannot get bacterial vaginosis, but they can still play a part in BV recurrence causes through bacterial transfer and changes in the penile microbiome. Understanding how BV spreads between partners, spotting male conditions that look similar to male BV symptoms, and following simple prevention steps can help lower the chance of recurrent BV.

Good habits make a big difference. These include:

• Keeping good genital hygiene
  
  
• Using condoms regularly
  
  
• Cleaning sex toys properly
  
  
• Avoiding scented products that can upset the vaginal microbiome
  
  

Men should also speak with a healthcare professional if they have ongoing irritation, discharge, pain when urinating, or symptoms that start after a new sexual partner. These steps support both partners and help reduce the risk of BV coming back.