Bacterial vaginosis - Lactobacillus spp., Gardnerella vaginalis, Atopobium vaginae (DNA, quantitative test)

Gardnerella Vaginalis

We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is unacceptable, the information provided below is for reference purposes only.

Gardnerella vaginalis is a type of bacteria that is commonly found in the vaginal flora of healthy women. It is a facultative anaerobic, gram-variable bacterium that can sometimes cause bacterial vaginosis, a condition characterized by an overgrowth of this and other anaerobic bacteria in the vagina.

Structure and Characteristics

Gardnerella vaginalis is a small, pleomorphic bacterium that can appear as either coccobacilli or short rods. It is catalase and oxidase negative and has the ability to produce sialidase, an enzyme that breaks down sialic acid, which is a component of the protective mucus layer in the vagina.

Gardnerella vaginalis is known for its ability to adhere to vaginal epithelial cells and form biofilms, which can contribute to the persistence of bacterial vaginosis. It is also capable of producing enzymes that break down vaginal fluid components, leading to an increase in pH and a characteristic fishy odor associated with bacterial vaginosis.

Role of Gardnerella Vaginalis

Gardnerella vaginalis is a type of bacteria that is commonly found in the vaginal flora of healthy women. However, an overgrowth of this bacteria can lead to a condition called bacterial vaginosis (BV), which is a common vaginal infection. The role of Gardnerella vaginalis in the development of BV is significant, as it is considered one of the primary causative agents.

Indications for Testing

Testing for Gardnerella vaginalis is typically recommended in the following situations:

• Evaluation of vaginal discharge: Women experiencing abnormal vaginal discharge, odor, or other symptoms suggestive of bacterial vaginosis may be tested for Gardnerella vaginalis to aid in the diagnosis.
• Screening during pregnancy: Bacterial vaginosis during pregnancy has been associated with an increased risk of complications, such as preterm birth. As a result, screening for Gardnerella vaginalis may be recommended during routine prenatal care.
• Follow-up after treatment: Testing for Gardnerella vaginalis may be performed to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment for bacterial vaginosis and ensure the infection has been adequately resolved.
• High-risk populations: Women with certain risk factors, such as multiple sexual partners or a history of recurrent bacterial vaginosis, may undergo routine screening for Gardnerella vaginalis as part of preventive care.

Preparation for the Gardnerella Vaginalis Test

The preparation process for the Gardnerella Vaginalis test is relatively simple and does not require extensive measures. However, there are a few recommendations to be considered:

• Avoid douching or using vaginal products: It is advisable to refrain from douching or using vaginal products (creams, suppositories, etc.) for at least 24-48 hours before the test, as these can interfere with the accuracy of the results.
• Abstain from sexual intercourse: It is recommended to abstain from sexual intercourse for at least 24 hours before the test to minimize the risk of introducing any external factors that may affect the results.
• Avoid menstruation: If possible, schedule the test at a time when you are not menstruating, as menstrual blood can potentially contaminate the sample.
• Inform your healthcare provider: Disclose any relevant information about your medical history, current medications, or recent antibiotic use to your healthcare provider, as these factors may influence the test results.

Test Procedure

The Gardnerella Vaginalis test involves collecting a sample of vaginal discharge or cells from the vaginal wall. This procedure is typically performed by a healthcare professional during a pelvic examination. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

How the Test is Performed

Gardnerella Vaginalis is a type of bacteria that is often associated with bacterial vaginosis, a vaginal inflammation that can cause discharge, odor, and other symptoms. The test for Gardnerella Vaginalis is typically performed on a sample of vaginal discharge or a swab from the vaginal wall. The sample is then analyzed in a laboratory to determine the presence and concentration of the bacteria.

Importance of the Test

Identifying the presence of Gardnerella Vaginalis can help diagnose bacterial vaginosis and guide appropriate treatment. Bacterial vaginosis is a common condition that can lead to complications during pregnancy, increase the risk of sexually transmitted infections, and cause discomfort and irritation. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing the condition and preventing potential complications.

Sources:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/3963-bacterial-vaginosis
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bacterial-vaginosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20352279
https://www.webmd.com/women/what-is-bacterial-vaginosis

IMPORTANT!

It is crucial to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or treatment. If you experience any pain or symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Only a qualified specialist can make an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate course of action. To ensure the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have them performed at the same laboratory, as different laboratories may use different methods and units of measurement for similar tests.