Is Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) an STD?
Content last reviewed 2026-09-12 · Educational information — not medical advice
Quick answer
Technically no. BV is a bacterial imbalance in the vagina, not a classic sexually transmitted infection, and it can occur without any sexual activity. But sex, especially with new partners, increases the risk. BV is not transmitted to male partners, and it is treated with metronidazole or clindamycin.
Is bacterial vaginosis an STD?
Technically no. BV is an imbalance of the normal bacteria in the vagina, not an infection passed from one person to another. It can develop without any sexual activity at all. However, sex, especially with new partners, increases the risk of developing it. Because it is not transmitted to male partners, it does not meet the definition of a sexually transmitted infection, even though it is often discussed alongside them.
How is BV diagnosed?
BV is diagnosed with a vaginal swab using a combination of tests: pH measurement, a whiff test, and a gram stain. The whiff test detects the fishy odor that appears when the sample is mixed with a special solution. A high vaginal pH and the presence of clue cells on the gram stain confirm the diagnosis. These are laboratory tests, not something you can reliably self-diagnose at home.
Can men get BV?
No. BV is not transmitted to male partners, which is a key reason it is not classified as an STD. The bacterial imbalance that defines BV is specific to the vaginal environment. Men can carry some of the associated bacteria without symptoms, but they do not develop BV itself. Treatment focuses on the person with the vagina, and partners do not need to be treated.
How is BV treated?
BV is treated with antibiotics, typically metronidazole or clindamycin, which restore the normal bacterial balance. Treatment is usually short, and symptoms like odor and discharge typically improve quickly. Because BV can come back, follow-up testing may be needed. If you have recurrent BV, a doctor can help identify contributing factors, including new sexual partners, douching, and other habits.
How is BV different from an STI?
An STI is caused by a specific pathogen transmitted through sexual contact, like chlamydia, gonorrhea, or trichomoniasis. BV is a shift in the vaginal microbiome that can happen on its own. The distinction matters for treatment and partner notification. If you are sexually active and concerned about STIs, BV testing does not replace STD testing, and the two are checked separately.
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Frequently asked questions
Does BV mean I have an STD?
No. BV is a bacterial imbalance, not a sexually transmitted infection, though sex with new partners can increase the risk of developing it.
Can BV go away on its own?
Sometimes, but treatment with metronidazole or clindamycin is the reliable way to resolve it and prevent recurrence.