Sex:
Over the last 5 years, studies have shown that sexual partners can share the harmful bacteria that cause that most common vaginal infection, bacterial vaginosis (BV). New research confirms that BV can be passed from men to women–challenging long-held assumptions and prompting a shift in how we think about prevention and treatment.
Summary: Recent research indicates that bacterial vaginosis (BV) can be transmitted from male partners to female partners, suggesting it functions as a sexually transmitted infection. A study found that treating both members of a couple significantly reduces BV recurrence in women, compared to treating only the woman. This challenges previous beliefs and highlights the importance of addressing both partners in treatment strategies.
But that’s only part of the story. The framing of these studies misses the larger health benefit of the shared genital microbiome for the sexual “dyad” or couple, their babies, and the family unit as a whole. Sharing a genital microbiome isn’t just about risk – it can be a powerful part of maintaining long-term health.
Science:
In a healthy body, millions of “good” bacteria live in the vagina and on the surface of the penis. These beneficial bacteria form a protective shield known as the “healthy genital microbiome.” When partners are intimate, they naturally share these “good” bacteria. This exchange helps protect us all from diseases such as:
- BV
- Sexually transmitted infections (HPV, herpes, HIV)
- Genital cancers (cervical, penile, ovarian).
For women, a healthy vaginal microbiome has at least 75% acid-producing bacteria (like lactobacilli). These bacteria keep the vaginal pH low to prevent disease. Even a small loss of our good bacteria – just 10% – can lead to infections, such as BV.
This healthy balance is developed and maintained through both sexual contact with our partners and through everyday “community” contact with people and environments. The microbiome of each couple is also passed on to babies during vaginal childbirth. In contrast, babies born by C-section get their initial microbiome from the air of the operating room rather than from their parent’s genital microbiome, a situation which can lead to increased risk of childhood diseases.
Nature:
It is important to understand that the although the genital microbiome is shared between partners – and, yes this can include bacteria that cause disease – for the vast majority of couples, intimacy is of benefit. Intimacy helps couples share and maintain a healthy microbiome with a beneficial balance that supports both partners’ health.
While antibiotics can effectively treat BV, they often wipe out the good bacteria too – leading to frequent recurrence and unwanted side effects. So how can couples support a healthy microbiome naturally and avoid the need for antibiotics?
Here’s what to avoid:
- Douching
- Suppositories
- Harsh cleansers or lubricants with high salt levels
These products disrupt the delicate ecosystem of beneficial bacteria. That’s why we developed Wild & Pure™ Prebiotic EcoBalance Cleansers and Serum. Our products help maintain healthy surfaces and support the awe-inspiring natural balance we share with others.