Gardnerella

What is a Better2Know Gardnerella test?

Gardnerella Vaginalis is a bacterium that lives mostly in the vagina. The Gardnerella bacteria occurs naturally, and together with other bacteria in the vagina, helps to maintain the correct pH balance for vaginal health. Sometimes the balance of bacteria including Gardnerella, can change, and this imbalance leads to an overgrowth of Gardnerella and other bacteria species causing a condition called Bacterial Vaginosis (BV). Bacterial Vaginosis is very common, and most women will experience this infection over the course of their life. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed below, you should consider taking a Gardnerella test.

Why consider a Gardnerella test?

Gardnerella Vaginalis is part of the natural flora of the vagina. However, it can frequently fall out of balance with other vaginal bacteria and lead to significant discomfort and problems. Bacterial Vaginosis can lead to changes in your normal vaginal discharge. With BV, your discharge may be greyish white, have an unusual fishy smell and a thin and watery consistency. If you are pregnant, BV can increase your risk of complication so you should get tested if you are or are planning to get pregnant. A Gardnerella infection can also significantly increase your risk of catching other Sexually Transmitted Infections such as Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea. Symptoms of a Gardnerella Vaginalis infection can include:

• Unpleasant smelling, "fishy" vaginal odour

• Thin, vaginal discharge that may be gray, white or green in colour

• Vaginal itching

• Burning during urination

How does this test work?

The Better2Know Gardnerella Vaginalis test requires only a urine sample. The urine sample is collected into a small tube. We supply all the material you need to collect your sample in the kit provided. Once you have collected your urine sample, simply follow the instructions in your kit and place it back in the prepaid postage envelope included for your sample to be sent back to our accredited laboratory for analysis. You will receive your results within 2 working days.

What tests will you run on my sample?

Your urine sample will be tested for the Gardnerella Vaginalis bacterium. Gardnerella is recognised to be the best indicator for Bacterial Vaginosis, a common condition affecting most sexually active women at some time in their lives. If your Gardnerella test is positive, you should seek medical attention to evaluate whether you require treatment. A Gardnerella infection can be effectively treated with a short course of antibiotics. Treatment will depend on the severity of your symptoms, if you are pregnant and if you are at risk of catching other sexually transmitted infections.

When will my test kit arrive?

If ordered before 4pm Monday-Friday, your test kit will be mailed the very same day and should arrive in the next 2 to 5 days, depending on your location.

How will I receive my test results?

Your Gardnerella test results will be available within 2 working days after your sample arrives at the lab. Better2Know will provide you with a confidential login code for our secure online patient login area, where you will be able to view your results once they are available. A member of our team will also contact you directly, to inform you when the results are in.

What should I do with my results?

If your results are positive for Gardnerella, you should seek medical attention. It is important that you been seen by a specialist who will evaluate if your infection requires treatment. Better2Know can make you an appointment with a private doctor in your local area, or you can visit your own GP.

How can I order my test?

Select the ‘Add to Cart’ button and proceed to checkout to order your Gardnerella Vaginalis test. If you require assistance do not hesitate to call, we are able to complete your order over the phone. If you have any further questions use the phone number above, our team is happy to help.