I KNEW IT!... Now what?
The fallout of BV potentially being an STI
Have you hear the news??? Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) has potentially been reclassified as an Sexually Transmitted Infection.
What is BV?
BV has long been known to be an upset in the microbiome of the vagina, often resulting in abnormal discharge, a suddenly strong “fishy” or “musty” smell that is not usual for that person, burning, or itching. Though sometimes BV can have no symptoms at all and can go a long time untreated. Up until recently, this condition hasn’t been classified as an STI within the field of medicine, despite sexual activity being considered a potential factor in inducing it. However, A recent study by the New England Journal of Medicine has thrown this assertion into question when it found that treating both partners with antibiotics, rather than just the one diagnosed, significantly decreased the likelihood that the BV would return. Ergo, Bacterial Vaginosis is most likely an STI. Dr. Jen Gunter has provided a wonderful breakdown of the study for those of us who are not well versed in deciphering academic articles.
The Emotional Fallout
This news comes with a lot of mixed feelings for many people. Reclassification means changes is our understanding of a very prevalent infection on an individual and cultural level. Everyone is going to have a slightly different reaction and bring their own experiences, biases, knowledge, or fears into their understanding. Now that we are caught up on that, what does this reclassification mean?
Shame
In the United States, there tends to be a lot of stigma and shame surrounding sex and, by extension, any health issues related to sex. I want to say right out the gate that STIs are not a moral failing. Like any other infection, there are many ways to get them and pass them on. Sexually transmitted ones just tend to have an unnecessary moral judgement tacked on to it as well. You can do everything “right” and still end up with a diagnosis. I expect a lot of push back on this reclassification due to this stigma and the fact that BV is so prevalent.
This also means many people may be feeling shame over now being diagnosed with a potential STI. While having an STI is not shameful in and of itself, that does not stop us from being human and feeling shame that we have been taught to feel. Emily Depasse also provided an insightful breakdown of how culture and shame may play into out understanding of BV now that it may be considered an STI. I strongly suggest reading her article as a deeper dive into STI Stigma in regard to BV. If you are struggling with STI shame (BV related or otherwise), reach out to your local reproductive health provider for resources.
Hope
This study has given us a method for more comprehensive treatment. BV has long been considered treatable through the use of antibiotics, but it’s always been a pesky little thing that was hard to actually get rid of. For some individuals, BV can require several rounds of antibiotics (which also has implications for antibiotic resistance). It’s very common for a yeast infection to occur after these antibiotics as well, adding another layer of treatment. And all of that could be for nothing, as BV recurs very soon after in a large number of cases. Now we know that treating all parties will decrease this likelihood and streamline the treatment process. More effective treatment (in theory)? Yes, please!
Vindication
While the field of medicine may not have considered Bacterial Vaginosis to be an STI, there are many who have long disagreed with this assertion. While not necessarily scientifically backed, there are a few patterns that many who have gotten BV before may have noticed. If it’s not an STI, then why do some people only get it through sexual activity? If it’s not an STI, then why do some people only get it after sexual activity with specific partners? If it’s not an STI, then why did getting BV tip people off that their partner was cheating? With BV reclassifying as an STI, this means this point of view is finally being heard. It means that we no longer have to feel crazy for connecting these dots. BV is finally being taken seriously rather than a nuisance to just throw more pills as and hope for the best. It means ex-partners everywhere can throw their hands up in vindication and say “I knew something was up!”
Rage
Why has it taken classifying BV as an STI for it’s treatment to be taken seriously? Untreated BV can have serious complications, such as increased risk of contracting another STI, pregnancy complications such as spontaneous abortion or preterm delivery, and Pelvic inflammatory disease. Are these issues not enough to have warranted our concern all along? Additionally, many people have had their gut reactions (the questions listed above) dismissed as paranoia. Why are our voices and concerns about the wellbeing of our bodies being shoved aside?
No matter what…
No matter how you have taken this new development, remember that investing in your sexual health is important. Listen to your intuition. Scream into the void if you must. Our understanding of sexual health is ever evolving. Most of us are just along for the ride.