What are the causes of bv?
<answer> 1 multiple or new sexual partners, 2 IUDs (intrauterine devices) for birth control, 3 recent antibiotic use, 4 vaginal douching, and. 5 cigarette smoking. <context> Why the bacteria combine to cause the infection is unknown. Certain factors have been identified that increase the chances of developing bacterial vaginosis. These include: 1  multiple or new sexual partners, 2  IUDs (intrauterine devices) for birth control, 3  recent antibiotic use, 4  vaginal douching, and. 5  cigarette smoking.