What it measures
Gardnerella vaginalis, a bacterium found in the vagina of many women. The lab looks for its genetic material with a nucleic acid test on urine or a swab. It is one of the bacteria linked to bacterial vaginosis, and it is often present without symptoms.
Why people test it
- Investigating unusual vaginal discharge or odour.
- Checking for one of the bacteria linked to bacterial vaginosis.
- Included in wider sexual health or vaginal health panels.
Typical range
There is no numeric range. The result is reported as detected or not detected. Because Gardnerella is common in people without symptoms, a detected result is read alongside any symptoms. The report shows how that lab reports it.
Finger-prick or vein?
This is not a blood test. It uses a urine sample or a swab, often taken at home. Kits that combine it with blood tests take the blood separately.