INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — A new study Findings from Australia indicate that bacterial vaginosis (BV) should now be recognized as an STI/STD. This condition impacts one out of every three women and has a recurrence rate of 50% among those treated with antibiotics.

Common signs of BV consist of vaginal itchiness, unusual discharge, unpleasant smell, and discomfort during urination. Having BV may elevate a woman’s likelihood of contracting STIs/STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV; this heightened susceptibility also increases her chances of experiencing PID and fertility issues. If contracted while pregnant, it could raise the risk of preterm labor or spontaneous abortion.

Although past research indicates that bacterial vaginosis (BV) is more prevalent among sexually active females, up until now, it hasn’t been categorized as an STI/STD. The findings from Australia revealed that treating male partners with both oral and topical antibiotics led to reducing the recurrence rate of infections in affected women by more than half after receiving antibiotic therapy. Previous investigations have also highlighted that women involved in same-sex relationships face a heightened risk for developing BV. Furthermore, factors such as engaging with numerous sexual partners, avoiding condom use, practicing douching, being intimate with someone who carries the infection, and smoking all contribute to elevating one’s likelihood of contracting BV.

Should you be encountering any of these signs or if you've had repeated episodes of bacterial vaginosis, consult with your medical provider for additional assessment and potential treatment of your sexual partner.