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Vaginal infections

The facts:

Vaginal infections occur in women if the balance of the natural vaginal flora is disturbed or if the vagina is infected with pathogens that do not belong there.  
Generally, vaginal infections cause an increased (vaginal) discharge as well as itching and burning.  
If the balance of the bacteria normally populating a woman’s vagina is disturbed, the result is so-called bacterial vaginosis. It is characterised by fish-like smelling vaginal discharge. The bacterium Gardnerella vaginalis is frequently cultivated at the laboratory. The illness can be cured by means of antibiotics.
In addition, the population of the vagina with fungi can also cause vaginal inflammation. These pathogens are types of Candida which belong to the family of yeast fungi and can be treated with antifungal antibiotics.
The Herpes simplex virus is another possible cause of infection. Please click here for more information. Finally, trichomonads are another common cause of vaginal inflammation which is also treatable.

What we are testing?

The mailed in swab is analysed for bacteria and fungi which are cultivated on agar dishes.

When should you take this test?

This examination is used to clarify the cause of vaginal symptoms.
The determination of vaginal infection at the laboratory is particularly useful if these symptoms occurred
frequently before.  
The results are available within 3 - 4 days upon request of the test materials.

How to use this test? (to instructions)

For the determination of vaginal infection, we require a vaginal swab. Every woman can collect the swab easily
for herself.
Please follow the instructions on the illustrations (pictograms), explaining the proper collection of specimens.

How and when will you receive the results?

You will receive the results within 3 days; sufficiently early to allow you to contact a physician in case of a positive result. S/he will prescribe an antibiotic.

What happens if the results reveal a vaginal infection?

It is recommended to see your general practitioner or an emergency physician. Because you will be bringing the laboratory test results, s/he will be able to prescribe the proper medical treatment without delay after a short examination.  

What happens if the results show that you do not have a vaginal infection caused by the analysed pathogens?

The infection can be caused by other pathogens, most frequently trichomonads which can be determined easily
by your physician under the microscope. Another possible cause is the Herpes simplex virus. Please click here for more information about Herpes simplex virus.
Should the symptoms not improve, please contact your general practitioner or an emergency physician.

Additional information:

 

Do you have any questions?

Click here for Advice and here for FAQ

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