In this test, the doctor or healthcare professional will take samples of cells and fluids from the vagina to check for vaginal infection. Vaginitis is another term for bacterial vaginosis. Gardnerella vaginitis, or Haemophilus vaginitis.
Bacterial vaginosis happens when there is some change in the balance of the microorganisms that thrive in a healthy vagina. In a healthy vagina, there are several microorganisms. But the microorganisms that are involved in vaginosis are Mycoplasma, Bacteroides, Mobiluncus, and Gardnerella. During bacterial vaginosis, the microorganisms that we mentioned increase while the healthy microorganisms decrease.
The common symptom is grayish white vaginal discharge. This might also have a fishy smell. If a woman gets bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy, then she might miscarry or have a preterm delivery. She might also get an infection after she delivers. So it is very important that pregnant women get themselves checked if they suspect that they have any of the symptoms.
There are several tests done to check this. Some of these include the wet mount test, whiff test, vaginal pH test, gram stain, and oligonucleotide probes.
This test is done to find out the reason behind the bacterial infection, vaginal discharge, pain or irritation.
For at least 24 hours before the bacterial vaginosis test, you must refrain from vaginal medicines, sex, and douche. If you have your periods, then the tests will be done later.
If you would like to ask your doctor anything about the test or have any concerns, then speak with your doctor.
You will have to remove your underwear and even clothes below the waist. You can wear a hospital gown or use a drape to cover your lower body. You will be asked to lie down on the examination table with your feet in the stirrups. The physician will insert a speculum inside your vagina to spread the vaginal walls, and check inside the cervix and the vagina. He will collect some fluid samples with a swab.
You may feel uncomfortable when the speculum is inserted inside your vagina.
There are no risks of the bacterial vaginosis test as long as it is done by a physician in a clean environment and with the right tools.
Some of the signs of bacterial vaginosis that can be found out through the test include a fishy odor, clue cells, and vaginal pH.