Gardnerella Vaginalis Diagnosis

Gardnerella vaginalis is a vaginal bacterium which can cause a condition known as bacterial vaginosis, or BV. According to BabyMed.com, Gardnerella vaginalis is the No. 1 cause of BV in sexually active adults. Diagnosis is made after review of the symptoms and laboratory testing to confirm the bacteria's presence.

Cause

• According to UrologyChannel.com, the cause for BV is not entirely clear. It does seem to be linked with a change in the vagina's normal bacterial balance and pH (acidity) levels. These changes allow Gardnerella vaginalis to reproduce and grow.

Examine Your Risk Factors

• The vagina's pH balance can be disrupted through the use of antibiotics, douches, diaphragms, contraceptive sponges and products that contain nonoxynol-9 (a spermicide), and by leaving tampons in for too long. Having several sexual partners, engaging in a new sexual relationship and having a history of sexually transmitted diseases are also risk factors.

Symptoms

• Prior to diagnosis, your doctor will want to know more about your symptoms. Gardnerella vaginalis symptoms include an abnormal odor along with vaginal discharge (usually described as musty or fishy). There is usually no irritation.

Diagnosis

• To diagnose Gardnerella vaginalis, your doctor will first take stock of your symptoms. A pelvic exam and laboratory testing of your vaginal fluid will confirm the presence of the bacteria.

Examination of vaginal fluid

• According to BabyMed.com, the laboratory will seldom need to culture your vaginal fluid. The Gardnerella vaginalis causing your bacterial vaginosis will usually be visible in clumps.

Treatment

• Treatment with antibiotics is effective. Doctors generally choose a six-day course of metronidazole. A six-day course of cephradine has also proven to be helpful in eradicating Gardnerella vaginalis.