Common condition affecting one-in-three women is a sexually transmitted infection

A new study reveals bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a sexually transmitted infection, paving the way for an overhaul in the approach to treatment.

The condition affecting nearly a third of women worldwide can cause infertility, premature births and newborn deaths.

The research, which was undertaken by Monash University and Alfred Health at the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, has been published by the New England Journal of Medicine this week.

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Researchers found the treatment of BV as an imbalance to the vaginal microbiome meant for more than 50 per cent of women the infection came back within three months after a standard week-long treatment of an oral antibiotic.

During a trial of 164 couples with BV in monogamous relationships, significantly higher cure rates were achieved when the condition was treated as an STI with both partners treated simultaneously.

Professor Catriona Bradshaw, who co-authored the study with colleague Dr Lenka Vodstrcil, described the successful intervention as relatively cheap, short and an indication of the potential improve health outcomes.

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The results have led to the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre changing its clinical practice to treat couples. 

Ahead of the change in guidelines, a new website has been set up for health professionals and consumers to provide information to prescribe and access partner treatment.

"This information has been co-designed with consumers and participants in the trial and health professionals to make it accessible to all," Professor Bradshaw said.

"Changes in national and international treatment guidelines always take time, so we felt an obligation to provide accurate online and downloadable information at the time that the results of the trial are published."

Assistant Minister for Health, Aged Care and Indigenous Health Ged Kearney said the Monash study has revealed how a simple change in treatment can make a significant difference for women.

"Bacterial vaginosis is a common condition that can have serious consequences for women, such as early pregnancy loss and premature labour," Kearney said.

"It's critical that we have a more effective way to treat it."

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