BV Profile Swab Test

When should I take a BV Profile Swab test?

Bacterial vaginosis (BV), or gardnerella vaginalis, is a condition which is common in sexually active women. The infection is not a direct result of having sex with an infected person, but develops when vaginal flora becomes disturbed. This imbalance is usually caused by an introduction of new bacteria to the vagina’s environment through sexual intercourse. Symptoms of BV may include an increase in vaginal discharge with an unpleasant smell.

Normally BV usually doesn’t cause immediate pain or discomfort, but can lead to serious health problems later in life and therefore it’s important to get tested regularly if you are sexually active. It’s recommended that you wait two weeks after you’ve had unprotected sex before you get tested by your doctor or use a home test kit.

How do I take a BV Profile Swab test?

Our BV profile swab test is extremely accurate, and uses the latest in PCR (polymerase chain reaction) testing methods to detect not only traces of the gardnerella bacteria, but also atopobium vaginae. Both types of bacteria are found in patients with BV and while regular urine tests only test for gardnerella, this BV Profile tests for BOTH bacteria. In addition to the two PCR detection methods, this test also uses a low vaginal culture swab to detect any traces of BV. This is a brand new PCR profile testing method that will pick up atopobium, which cannot be cultured and will only be identified by PCR methodologies.

If you want to take a BV Profile Swab test, all you need to do is order a test online from us. Once you’ve received your test, simply follow the instructions provided in the test pack and collect one PCR sample swab and one vaginal sample swab in the comfort of your home. We include a prepaid envelope so that you can easily send your sample back to our laboratory for processing. The test will include one polyester-tipped culture swab in a tube and one transwab for PCR. This test doesn’t require you to provide a urine or blood sample.

When will I get my results?

You will be able to view your test results online between four to five days of your test arriving at our laboratory. We will notify you via email as soon as your results are ready, and you can log-in to the members area to view your results.

What happens if I test positive?

Bacterial vaginosis is easy to treat and most people only require a short course of antibiotics to completely cure the condition. If you’re unsure about which treatment options are available to you, our team of registered doctors will be able to advise you on the best option for you.