How is bv tested

How do you check to see if you have BV? What are the symptoms of BV in males? Can BV go away on its own? Can you give BV to your partner? We're always here for you, day and night, with support, advice and healthcare essentials for you and your family. Our website is not support by your current browser, come and join us on:. Get Chrome. Get Firefox. Get Safari. Get Edge. You'll have a gown to drape around your waist. You will then lie on your back on an examination table.

Your feet will be raised and supported by stirrups. This is similar to having a pelvic examination or Pap test. Your doctor will insert a lubricated tool called a speculum into your vagina. The speculum gently spreads apart the vaginal walls. This allows your doctor to see the inside of the vagina and the cervix. You may feel some discomfort when the speculum is put in, especially if your vagina is irritated and tender. A wet mount does not show clue cells or large numbers of bacteria that cause bacterial vaginosis.

Vaginal pH is in the normal range. A wet mount shows clue cells or large numbers of the types of bacteria that cause bacterial vaginosis, or both. Author: Healthwise Staff. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content. Bacterial vaginosis is usually treated with antibiotic tablets or gels or creams.

You'll need to take treatment for longer up to 6 months if you keep getting BV you get it more than twice in 6 months. A GP or sexual health clinic will recommend how long you need to treat it. They can also help identify if something is triggering your BV, such as sex or your period. Bacterial vaginosis is caused by a change in the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina.

What causes this to happen is not fully known, but you're more likely to get it if:. This may be because BV makes your vagina less acidic and reduces your natural defences against infection. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

It looks like your browser does not have JavaScript enabled. Please turn on JavaScript and try again. Important Phone Numbers. Top of the page. Test Overview Tests for bacterial vaginosis take samples of fluid from the vagina. Tests Tests for bacterial vaginosis include: Wet mount. A sample of vaginal discharge is checked for bacteria, white blood cells , and unusual cells called clue cells.

If clue cells are present, it means you may have bacterial vaginosis. Whiff test. A sample of discharge is checked to see if a strong fishy odour is created when a special solution is added. A fishy odour usually means you have bacterial vaginosis. Vaginal pH. The pH of a sample of vaginal discharge is measured. Bacterial vaginosis often causes a pH that is higher than normal.

Oligonucleotide probe. A sample of vaginal discharge is tested for the genetic material, or DNA , of this bacteria. This test is not often used. Why It Is Done Tests for bacterial vaginosis are done to help find the cause of symptoms such as abnormal vaginal discharge, irritation, or pain. How To Prepare Do not douche, have sex, or use vaginal medicines for 24 hours before this test.