Women’s Health & Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) Testing
Testing for Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis is a type of vaginitis (inflammation of the vagina) caused by bacterial overgrowth. It happens when there is a shift in the balance of healthy bacteria that usually live in the vagina. Emerging research shows that these good bacteria are essential to health. They keep the bad ones at bay and help maintain the pH balance. Yeast, viruses, and parasites can all infect the vagina and cause inflammation as well, so getting tested to see what’s causing the symptoms is essential.
FAQs
Price for Vaginitis panel: $159
Vaginosis can cause inflammation, unusual discharge, discomfort during sex, itching around the vagina, and general discomfort in the vagina. It also has a notable fish-like smell that may be more pronounced after sex. Depending on the cause of the symptoms, vaginosis can progress to more severe health complications and infertility.
Vaginosis can occur when someone has several sexual partners without a condom, internal use of lotions that are external use only, or attempts to clean inside with a douche or other means. This allows the harmful bacteria to take over.
Vaginosis increases your risk of contracting STDs because the good bacteria that usually keep harmful bacteria out can’t do their job. Limited evidence also links vaginosis to an increased risk of developing a bladder infection, as the good bacteria you’re missing may also protect the urinary tract since it’s so close.
This test requires a sample of vaginal discharge which can be discreetly obtained using a cotton swab in a private location. We use PCR testing (polymerase chain reaction) for all our in-house testing. This is a type of molecular testing that delivers an accuracy of greater than 99%. It can identify the specific strain of bacteria or other pathogens infecting the body to determine the most effective treatment.
Once we identify the pathogens taking over the vagina, your provider can prescribe an antibiotic or other treatment the pathogen will respond to.
