Bacterial Vaginosis Diagnosis

 

How will I know if I have bacterial vaginosis?

If you think you may have it, talk to a doctor or nurse who might recommend a test if you have signs and symptoms. You may notice these yourself or they may be noticed by a doctor or nurse during a vaginal examination.
Some women may also be offered a test during pregnancy and before some gynaecological procedures or an abortion.
Bacterial vaginosis is not a sexually transmitted infection but it is important that you don’t delay getting advice if you think you may have been at risk of a sexually transmitted infection.

What does the test involve?

A doctor or nurse will look at any vaginal discharge and use a swab or a small plastic loop to collect a sample of cells from the walls of the vagina, during an internal examination. A swab looks a bit like a cotton bud, but is smaller, soft and rounded.
The swab or loop is wiped over the parts of the body that could be affected and easily picks up samples of discharge and cells. It only takes a few seconds and is not usually painful, though it may be uncomfortable for a moment.
The pH (alkaline/acid balance) of the vagina may be measured by wiping a sample of vaginal discharge over a piece of specially treated paper.
Samples taken during the examination are looked at under a microscope to check for bacterial vaginosis. In some services, the result is available immediately. In others a sample is sent to a laboratory, and the result is usually available within a week.
Sometimes bacterial vaginosis is noticed during a cervical screening test, but you will only need treatment if you have problems with discharge.
Routine blood tests do not detect infections such as bacterial vaginosis.

How accurate are the tests?

Tests for bacterial vaginosis are usually accurate. The doctor or nurse will discuss your test results with you.

Where can I get a test?

You may be offered a test as soon as you have signs and symptoms for the doctor or nurse to check. There are a number of services you can go to. Choose the service you feel most comfortable with.
A test can be done at:

• a genitourinary medicine (GUM) or sexual health clinic
• some general practices (ask a doctor or practice nurse)
• some contraception clinics and young people’s services.

You might like: Home Remedies for Bacterial Vaginosis
Source: http://www.fpa.org.uk/sexually-transmitted-infections-stis-help/thrush-and-bacterial-vaginosis#ezIxUOq8jurmFarH.99

 

How do you get bacterial vaginosis? Signs and Symptoms

How do you get bacterial vaginosis?

 

Bacterial vaginosis can occur if you:

• use medicated or perfumed soaps, bubble bath or shower gel
• put antiseptic liquids in the bath
• douche or use vaginal deodorant
• use strong detergents to wash your underwear
• smoke.

Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, semen in the vagina after sex without a condom, an intrauterine contraceptive device and genetic factors may also play a part.
Bacterial vaginosis is not a sexually transmitted infection, but women who are sexually active and have had a change of partner are more likely to have it, including women in same-sex relationships.

What are the signs and symptoms of bacterial vaginosis?

Around half of women with bacterial vaginosis will not have any signs and symptoms at all, or may not be aware of them. If you do get symptoms you might notice a change in your usual vaginal discharge. This may increase, become thin and watery, change to a white/grey colour and develop a strong, unpleasant, fishy smell, especially after sexual intercourse. Bacterial vaginosis is not usually associated with soreness, itching or irritation.

You can Read More: Bacterial Vaginosis Treatment 

Source: http://www.fpa.org.uk/sexually-transmitted-infections-stis-help/thrush-and-bacterial-vaginosis#ezIxUOq8jurmFarH.99