Subscribe now
A transmission electron micrograph of a colony of Gardnerella vaginalis , bacteria that are found in vaginas and the urethras of men who have vaginal sex

The microbiome inside the penis can be altered by vaginal sex

21 March 2023

The penis plays host to a collection of bacteria known as the penile microbiome, and an analysis of urethral swabs has found that men who have vaginal sex can pick up bacteria normally found in the vagina
How worried should you be about a new 'superbug' STI?

How worried should you be about a new 'superbug' STI?

12 July 2018

You’ve probably never heard of Mycoplasma genitalium, even though it’s one of the most prevalent. Here’s what you need to know
Bacteria release aphrodisiacs that put others in mood for sex

Bacteria release aphrodisiacs that put others in mood for sex

8 June 2017

Eros protein is the first evidence that bacteria regulate mating of other, non-bacterial creatures

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up
Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop