How A Bacterial Vaginosis Diagnosis is Done And Why You Should Go For One

Many of us shiver at the thought of a doctor's visit but if you knew how a bacterial vaginosis diagnosis is done you'd see it's a quick and simple test.

You may have a sixth sense or a strong doubt of your problem but doctors can positively diagnosis bacterial vaginosis. Your physician can property diagnose BV from your physical symptoms but they will verify utilizing tests.

The test involves certain criteria to confirm bacterial vaginosis is present.

1. The Whiff Test - This test involves a drop of vaginal discharge mixed with a drop of potassium hydroxide and then the doctor smells to find any strong smelling proteins. A positive whiff is indicated by the presence of that fishy odor.
2. The pH Acidity Test - This test is done by placing a piece of chemically treated paper against the wall of the vagina. The doctor looks for an acidic reading of 3.5 to 4.5 If the pH is a normal reading there will be a normal level of Lactobacilli in the vagina. If the pH level is higher than the norm, the doctor knows there is some vaginal problem and continues with other testing to confirm BV.
3. The Wet Mount Culture Test - Vaginal secretions are mixed with a few drops of salt water on one slide and a second slide that contains potassium hydroxide. The doctor looks to see what type of vaginal cells are present. If bacterial vaginosis is present certain cells will be covered with bacteria and the doctor can see which bacteria is predominate.

It's vital to see a physician especially if you've never had BV before and you really aren't sure if that's what your problem is. Although BV is not an infection it can lead to serious problems if left unchecked. This is also a good case for women to get a yearly Pap smear. Many women who try to self-treat choose all the wrong methods and never completely eliminate the bacterial vaginosis leaving it to travel up to the fallopian tubes. It can sit there all the while growing becoming worse.

Bacteria that are left to grow and concentrate throughout the vaginal canal will potentially harm a woman's changes for pregnancy. And if a women contracts bacterial vaginosis during a pregnancy it can invade the cervix and membranes causing the sac to rupture.

Keep in mind, every woman will not experience the same symptoms. Everything from the telltale fishy odor and grayish-yellow discharge to itching, burning and rashes can occur. Some women experience no symptoms for quite a while, although that is rare.

Bacterial vaginosis can become more than an embarrassing nuisance when not checked. Yes, it can be resolved with all natural methods but you should get a proper diagnosis.