How BV Can Disrupt Fertility and What You Can Do About It
Not too long ago, I found myself deep in a group chat where someone casually asked, “Can BV affect fertility?” and you’d be surprised how many women chimed in with stories, questions, and frustration. That’s when it really hit me—this isn’t a niche topic. It’s something way too many of us are silently wondering about. Let’s break it all down in real talk, not medical jargon overload.
What is BV and Why It’s More Than Just “An Infection”
BV, or bacterial vaginosis, is one of those conditions that sneaks up on you when you’re not expecting it. It’s not an STD, yet somehow it shows up like an uninvited guest after sex, periods, stress, or even tight jeans. It’s caused by an imbalance in the vaginal microbiome—when the good bacteria get outnumbered by the bad guys, particularly anaerobic bacteria.
What’s wild is how many women deal with BV and never even know. It doesn’t always come with glaring symptoms. Some women only notice a slight change in discharge or no odor at all. Others may experience that classic fishy smell, especially after sex. It’s annoying, yes—but the real kicker is how BV may mess with fertility without ringing any alarm bells.
How BV Could Interfere with Fertility
I’ve talked to more than a few OB/GYNs over the years—both in appointments and socially (doctor friends are great, right?)—and they all confirm the same: BV is often overlooked in fertility conversations. But here’s what I learned through my own research and chats with real women—it’s a sneaky player.
BV May Disrupt Sperm Survival
Sperm are pretty tough swimmers, but BV throws them into rougher waters. The altered vaginal pH and overgrowth of harmful bacteria can lower sperm motility and survival rates. And even worse, it can damage the protective cervical mucus that healthy sperm rely on to reach the egg.
BV Increases Risk of PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease)
This one really gave me pause. If BV goes untreated, especially if it keeps coming back, it can make your reproductive tract more vulnerable to infections like PID. PID can cause scarring in the fallopian tubes, making conception harder—or sometimes, sadly, impossible.
- Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
- Inflammation that disrupts ovulation
- Increased risk of ectopic pregnancy
BV’s Effect on IVF and Fertility Treatments
For women going through IVF, studies show BV can lower implantation rates. Some fertility clinics even screen for BV before embryo transfer. If they find it, treatment usually comes first, especially since BV can linger even after antibiotics if not fully cleared.
What I Learned From My Own Fertility Journey
Here’s the real talk—I didn’t even know BV could be a factor in fertility until I was months into trying to conceive. It was during a routine checkup that my gynecologist casually said, “Your vaginal flora’s a bit off.” I had BV. No symptoms, no idea. I took metronidazole (yes, the bitter pill that ruins your taste buds), and it went away… for a bit. Then it came back.
I started researching everything. I changed my hygiene habits, said goodbye to scented wipes (which honestly did more harm than good), and started taking vaginal probiotics. I even learned how stress levels can impact vaginal balance. Every little thing matters more than we think.
Reducing BV Flare-Ups While Trying to Conceive
Look, BV might not be the sole reason you’re struggling to get pregnant, but ignoring it isn’t the move. Here are a few things I did that actually helped my body get back on track:
- Cut down sugar – Bad bacteria thrive on it. After I swapped out sugary snacks for fruits and whole grains, I noticed fewer flare-ups.
- Added probiotics – Not just any kind. Look for strains like *Lactobacillus reuteri* and *rhamnosus*—the ones known to support vaginal health.
- Stopped douching – This one’s huge. Douching disrupts everything. It doesn’t clean you—it nukes your flora.
- Tracked ovulation & discharge – Changes in discharge sometimes warned me of an oncoming flare. It became my early warning system.
Pairing these changes with a BV-friendly diet honestly helped more than I expected. My gynecologist even gave me the nod and said, “Your vaginal pH seems happier now.” We both laughed, but she was right.
When You Should Talk to a Fertility Specialist
If you’ve been trying for a while—say, 6 to 12 months with no success—and BV keeps popping up, it’s worth bringing it up with a fertility specialist. Most won’t test for BV unless you ask. Advocate for yourself. Mention how recurrent BV might be tied to deeper hormonal or lifestyle imbalances. And don’t settle for vague reassurances.
Also, do yourself a favor and dive into this guide on BV in pregnancy and this main article on bacterial vaginosis. They helped me fill in gaps I didn’t even know existed.
And if you’re craving more specifics on how BV can play havoc with your fertility timeline, including whether your partner should get checked, how to avoid reinfection, or if certain meds interfere with TTC—well, let’s just say there’s a lot to unpack.
#LNF
Dr. Gwenna Aazee is a board-certified Internal Medicine Physician with a special focus on hypertension management, chronic disease prevention, and patient education. With years of experience in both clinical practice and medical writing, she’s passionate about turning evidence-based medicine into accessible, actionable advice. Through her work at Healthusias.com, Dr. Aazee empowers readers to take charge of their health with confidence and clarity. Off the clock, she enjoys deep dives into nutrition research, long walks with her rescue pup, and simplifying medical jargon one article at a time.
