Bacterial vaginosis usually resolves without treatment. But if you notice the symptoms, then you should treat them to avoid complications.
If you have an abnormal discharge from your vagina, then see your GP without delay. Your GP can diagnose this condition, and rule out other infections, like trich or gonorrhoea.
If bacterial vaginosis is left untreated, it may trigger complications, mostly during pregnancy.
Many health facilities recommend giving bacterial vaginosis treatment to women who are due for a hysterectomy.
It is crucial to bear in mind that BV is not a standard STD. This means that it is not always transmitted directly through sexual contact.
If you are a woman with BV and your partner is a man, he is unlikely to need treatment under current guidelines. The possibility of BV transmission between female sexual partners is greater than between male partners. There is no solid proof that treating male partners prevents BV from happening again. Therefore, your partner doesn't need to don his Sherlock Holmes cap and start looking for antibiotics just yet.
The plot thickens, however, if you're involved with a female partner. Researchers have found that BV is contagious between women and can be widespread among women who engage in sexual activity with other women. More study is needed, but in cases where BV keeps reappearing, some doctors may treat the patient's female partner to reduce the risk of relapse.
But keep in mind that everyone has a different backstory, and the final verdict will often hinge on specifics. Keep an open line of communication with your doctor so they can give you advice based on the latest scientific evidence and your unique circumstances.
Even though BV usually clears up on its own, if you experience symptoms like a strange discharge or a fishy odour, you should see a doctor. Getting help quickly can lessen the likelihood of complications and help you regain agency in your story.
Keeping lines of communication open and taking proactive steps towards maintaining good sexual and reproductive health are crucial for navigating this complex plot line, even if partners do not always need to be treated when a person has BV.