Bacterial vaginosis affects nearly 1 in 3 women of reproductive age. A study adds to evidence it is sexually transmitted, offering a new way to reduce recurrence.

Bacterial vaginosis is a poorly understood infection that affects one in three women and can bring with it uncomfortable symptoms and, sometimes, long-term health complications. Treatment is often unsuccessful, with 60 percent of B.V. cases recurring within a year, keeping women stuck in a disruptive cycle of going on and off antibiotics.

Bacterial vaginosis, which is caused by bacteria overgrowing in the vagina, can be hard to treat, with women often experiencing recurring symptoms. Now it seems that asking their male sexual partners