How BV Can Negatively Affect Fertility in Women
When I first heard about bacterial vaginosis (BV) and its potential connection to fertility, I brushed it off like most women might. BV seemed more like an annoying inconvenience than something that could interfere with future family plans. But after experiencing recurring symptoms and finally taking the time to dig into what BV really is, I realized there’s way more to it—especially when it comes to reproductive health. So, if you’re wondering, can BV affect fertility in women?—you’re absolutely not alone, and you’re in the right place.
What Exactly Is BV—and Why Should You Care?
BV is one of those conditions that’s incredibly common yet frustratingly under-discussed. It happens when there’s a disruption in the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina. Instead of the good bacteria (like lactobacilli) dominating, harmful ones (like Gardnerella vaginalis) start to take over. The result? A fishy smell, weird discharge, maybe some irritation—and sometimes, no symptoms at all. According to CDC, it’s the most common vaginal condition in women aged 15 to 44.
While the symptoms are unpleasant, what’s even more concerning is how BV can fly under the radar and potentially interfere with things like pregnancy outcomes, treatment while pregnant, and yes—fertility.
How Can BV Impact a Woman’s Fertility?
This is where things get serious. BV doesn’t directly “kill” fertility—but it can create the perfect storm for complications that do. Let’s break it down:
1. It Can Make Getting Pregnant Harder
If you’re trying to conceive, BV might be working against you quietly. The altered pH and reduced healthy bacteria can affect sperm survival and mobility. It’s like creating a hostile environment that sperm don’t thrive in. I remember reading studies suggesting that BV can lower the chances of conception, especially if untreated for a long time. It’s subtle, but it matters.
2. Increases Risk of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
One of the biggest risks is that BV can ascend the reproductive tract and cause pelvic inflammatory disease—a painful condition that damages the fallopian tubes and can lead to infertility. PID doesn’t always come with screaming symptoms either; many women only realize the damage when they struggle to get pregnant later on.
3. Leads to Pregnancy Complications
Even if conception happens, BV can still be a risk. Multiple studies have linked it to higher chances of preterm labor, miscarriages, and low birth weight babies. So, while BV itself isn’t a “fertility killer,” its ripple effects definitely influence reproductive outcomes.
Why BV Often Goes Undetected
One of the trickiest parts? Many women don’t even realize they have BV. Unlike yeast infections, which often bring intense itching and burning, BV can be surprisingly quiet. You might notice a strong odor, or grayish discharge—or nothing at all. It’s easy to dismiss as just a “weird week” in your cycle.
What made me finally go to a doctor was the nagging feeling that something just wasn’t right. My cycle felt off, and the symptoms kept coming back. After getting properly diagnosed, I realized that the longer I ignored it, the worse the potential consequences could be.
Is It a Sexual Health Issue?
There’s this lingering misconception that BV is an STI—it’s not. But it can be triggered or worsened by sexual activity. In fact, certain sexual behaviors (like new or multiple partners) have been linked to BV risk. What’s more frustrating is that it can keep coming back, even after successful treatment, especially if your partner isn’t also evaluated or if you don’t make certain hygiene changes.
- Use of harsh soaps or douching
- Frequent unprotected sex
- Multiple sex partners
These are all factors that contribute to BV recurrence. And guess what? Recurrence makes the fertility risk higher too. It’s like your body never gets the chance to reset its natural balance.
What I Learned (the Hard Way) About Managing BV
I’m not a doctor, but after battling BV more times than I can count, here’s what actually made a difference:
- Probiotics – both oral and vaginal, helped maintain balance post-treatment. Check out this guide to probiotics for BV.
- Communication with my OB-GYN – no shame, just honest questions about fertility impact.
- Less sugar – surprisingly, cutting back helped reduce flare-ups. Read more in this sugar and BV connection article.
But one of the most powerful things I did? I started learning. Understanding BV beyond surface-level symptoms changed how I approached my health. That’s why if you’re thinking about fertility, BV deserves your full attention—not just as a side issue but as part of the full picture.
To dig even deeper into long-term BV prevention and solutions, check out this resource on long-term BV solutions. And don’t miss the main guide to bacterial vaginosis for a broader understanding of how it all ties together.
If you’re wondering about symptoms and risk factors in general, I’d highly recommend this symptom guide for BV as a starting point.
Can You Treat BV and Still Get Pregnant?
Yes, absolutely—but with some intentional care. The good news? BV isn’t a permanent fertility barrier. I’ve seen stories and experienced firsthand how, once treated properly and managed, many women go on to conceive without complications. The not-so-fun part? It might take more diligence than expected.
What worked for me wasn’t just a one-time round of antibiotics—it was building a routine that supported a healthier vaginal environment. BV is notorious for coming back. That’s why pairing medical treatment with some smart lifestyle changes is critical.
1. Medical Treatment Options
The usual go-to is either metronidazole or clindamycin, both effective in clearing up the infection. They come in oral and gel forms, and most OB-GYNs will guide you on what’s best depending on your history and severity.
But here’s what no one tells you right away: antibiotics often fix the current problem but leave your vaginal flora stripped down. That’s why I layered in plain yogurt treatments and probiotics afterward—to rebuild that healthy balance and keep the bad guys from coming back.
2. Natural Add-Ons That Actually Help
While I wouldn’t rely solely on natural remedies, I’ve found some to be surprisingly helpful when used responsibly:
- Tea tree oil (highly diluted) can be soothing, though a patch test is non-negotiable.
- Apple cider vinegar soaks—helped reset pH slightly after flare-ups.
- Coconut oil suppositories—felt like they gave lasting moisture and helped reduce recurrence.
Again, none of this replaces professional treatment, but when I combined these with regular check-ins and a lot of reading (hello, PubMed), the change was noticeable.
Pregnancy and BV—A Balancing Act
If you’re already pregnant or planning to be, managing BV is especially important. What I didn’t know until talking to my midwife is that BV can increase the risk of preterm birth or even miscarriage if left untreated. It’s something that can escalate quickly during pregnancy because of hormonal shifts affecting vaginal flora.
Here’s what I kept in mind during that season:
- Get regular screenings — even if you feel fine.
- Stick to mild, fragrance-free products.
- Avoid douching — it’s tempting, but makes things worse. See this breakdown on douching and BV.
Sex, Partners, and Recurrence: What You Need to Know
This one’s awkward but important. BV isn’t technically an STD, but it can be influenced by sex. Recurrence after intimacy is super common, and in my case, happened several times until we figured out a game plan. If you’re experiencing repeat BV after treatment, ask your OB-GYN about whether your partner should be treated too. It’s a thing, and more couples are addressing it together now.
Another underestimated tip? Switch up your underwear. I ditched my synthetics and tight leggings for a while and stuck to breathable cotton—turns out underwear really does matter when you’re trying to prevent recurrence.
Long-Term BV Management and Fertility Monitoring
If you’ve had BV more than once, you already know that keeping it in check is a marathon, not a sprint. For me, a combination of regular follow-ups, diet tweaks, and vaginal microbiome awareness became a lifestyle. I even started tracking symptoms along with my cycle in an app—not fancy, but super helpful.
Also, don’t underestimate your diet. I noticed real changes in recurrence frequency when I started focusing on gut health. Read about foods that feed good bacteria—it’s not just a trend, it actually impacts vaginal health too.
And if you’re trying to conceive, speak up early with your doctor. Mention your BV history. Ask about options. It’s always better to approach fertility holistically and proactively.
Why Early Action Matters More Than You Think
In hindsight, the biggest thing I wish I’d done differently? Act sooner. For too long, I treated BV like a minor nuisance instead of a real health concern. But once I faced it head-on, not only did I feel more in control—I also gave my body the best shot at maintaining fertility. BV isn’t something to fear—but it is something to respect.
If you’re looking for a broader prevention strategy, check out this solid guide on BV prevention tips. And don’t miss this comprehensive article on bacterial vaginosis if you’re ready to really understand your body better.
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.
