Bacterial vaginosis (BV) tests
Explanation
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) testing examines fluid from the vagina for signs of a change in its usual balance of bacteria. It helps assess whether BV explains symptoms such as unusual discharge or odor.
How is the sample tested?
A clinician may examine the fluid under a microscope and check its odor and acidity. The acidity measurement is called pH. Other tests look for genetic material from bacteria associated with BV. The method used affects how the result is reported.
What can the result establish?
A higher vaginal pH means the fluid is less acidic. This can be one sign of BV, but pH alone cannot identify the cause of symptoms. Culture means growing bacteria from the sample in a laboratory. Finding one kind, such as Gardnerella, this way does not establish BV on its own.
A BV test does not automatically test for yeast or every sexually transmitted infection. The tests carried out on a vaginal sample vary. Results need to be considered alongside symptoms and the examination.
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