Evidence for men carrying Gardnerella vaginalis in the urethra

TL;DR

Research dating back to 1982 has shown that men can carry Gardnerella vaginalis, a bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis, in their urogenital tract. Studies highlight that heterosexual men are more likely to carry this bacteria than homosexual men, with some showing symptoms of inflammation. This finding underscores the importance of understanding the role men play in the transmission and management of bacterial vaginosis.

There is evidence from as far back as 1982 that men carry bacterial vaginosis-related bacteria in their urogenital tract. One study​1​ looked into Gardnerella vaginalis in the urethra of 430 men who attended a sexual health clinic, with 11 found to be carrying the bacteria.

Heterosexual men were far more likely to carry G. vaginalis than homosexual men.

In another study​2​, 15 men gave urine samples from which G. vaginalis was isolated. Ten of the 15 men had symptoms or signs of inflammation. Men can have G. vaginalis infections in their urethras.

References

  1. 1.
    Dawson SG, Ison CA, Csonka G, Easmon CSF. Male carriage of Gardnerella vaginalis. Sexually Transmitted Infections. Published online August 1, 1982:243-245. doi:10.1136/sti.58.4.243
  2. 2.
    Smith S, Ogbara T, Eng R. Involvement of Gardnerella vaginalis in urinary tract infections in men. J Clin Microbiol. 1992;30(6):1575-1577. doi:10.1128/JCM.30.6.1575-1577.1992


Jessica Lloyd - Vulvovaginal Specialist Naturopathic Practitioner, BHSc(N)

Jessica is a degree-qualified naturopath (BHSc) specialising in vulvovaginal health and disease, based in Melbourne, Australia.

Jessica is the owner and lead naturopath of My Vagina, and is a member of the:

  • International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD)
  • International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH)
  • National Vulvodynia Association (NVA) Australia
  • New Zealand Vulvovaginal Society (ANZVS)
  • Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS)
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