Male Partner Treatment for Bacterial Vaginosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials.
Zainab Aliyu Attahir, Surasith Chaithongwongwatthana, Alhassan Ibrahim et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis of eight randomized controlled trials assessed whether treating male partners alongside women with bacterial vaginosis (BV) affects recurrence or cure. Overall, male partner treatment did not significantly change BV recurrence (RR 0.92; 95% CI 0.69-1.23; I2 = 64%) or cure rate (RR 1.01; 95% CI 0.94-1.07; I2 = 46%). Adverse events were mild and similar between groups. Lower recurrence was observed among fully adherent couples, particularly with combined oral and topical treatment in a recent trial.
Key findings
- Male partner treatment did not significantly reduce BV recurrence (RR 0.92; 95% CI 0.69-1.23; I2 = 64%).
- Treatment did not significantly improve cure rate (RR 1.01; 95% CI 0.94-1.07; I2 = 46%).
- Adverse events were mild and similar across groups (RD 0.04; 95% CI 0.02-0.11).
- Lower recurrence was observed among fully adherent couples, particularly with combined oral and topical treatment in a recent trial.
Why it matters
BV commonly recurs after standard antibiotic therapy, and male genital microbiota may be a reservoir for BV-associated bacteria. The pooled results indicate that routine partner treatment did not improve recurrence or cure overall, while the adherence-related finding suggests that regimen delivery may matter. This distinction is relevant when interpreting partner-treatment evidence and designing further trials.
What to keep in mind
The pooled estimates showed substantial heterogeneity for recurrence (I2 = 64%) and moderate heterogeneity for cure (I2 = 46%).