From the Guidelines
I do not recommend applying clindamycin cream to the penis if your wife has bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV is not considered a sexually transmitted infection, and male partners typically do not require treatment 1. The standard treatment for BV involves prescription medications for the female partner only, usually oral metronidazole, oral clindamycin, or vaginal formulations of these medications that she would use as prescribed by her healthcare provider.
Key Points to Consider
- While reinfection can occur between partners, there is limited evidence that treating male partners reduces recurrence rates 1.
- Instead of applying medication to the penis, using condoms during intercourse until your wife completes her treatment course would be more appropriate.
- If you're experiencing symptoms yourself, such as irritation, redness, or discharge, you should consult with your own healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment rather than self-medicating with your wife's prescription medication.
Treatment Options for BV
- Metronidazole 500 mg orally twice a day for 7 days 1.
- Clindamycin 300 mg orally twice a day for 7 days 1.
- Metronidazole gel 0.75%, one full applicator (5 g) intravaginally twice a day for 5 days 1.
- Clindamycin cream 2%, one full applicator (5 g) intravaginally at bedtime for 7 days 1.
From the Research
Treatment for Male Partners of Women with Bacterial Vaginosis
- The study 2 suggests that male partners of women with bacterial vaginosis can be treated with 2% clindamycin cream applied topically to the glans penis and upper shaft, twice daily for 7 days, in addition to oral metronidazole.
- Another study 3 also recommends the use of 2% clindamycin cream applied to penile skin, twice daily for 7 days, in combination with oral metronidazole, as a treatment for male partners to prevent recurrence of bacterial vaginosis in their female partners.
- However, it is essential to note that the effectiveness of treating male partners with antibiotics to prevent recurrence of bacterial vaginosis in women is still a topic of debate, with some studies 4, 5 showing mixed results.
Clindamycin Cream Application
- The recommended application of 2% clindamycin cream is to the glans penis and upper shaft, twice daily for 7 days 2, 3.
- It is crucial to follow the prescribed treatment regimen and consult a healthcare professional for proper guidance on applying the cream.
Importance of Concurrent Treatment
- Concurrent treatment of both the woman and her male partner may increase the likelihood of cure and reduce the risk of recurrence of bacterial vaginosis 3.
- However, more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of concurrent treatment and to determine the best course of action for preventing recurrence.