Can I test for BV at home?
Yes. Bacterial vaginosis is diagnosed from a vaginal swab, and the swab does not need a clinician to take it. This kit uses the same two swabs a sexual health clinic would use: an Aptima multisite swab for PCR testing and a gel swab for culture. You collect both at home and return them in the pre-paid packaging.
What does the BV swab test check for?
- Gardnerella vaginalis, the bacterium most often behind bacterial vaginosis
- Candida, the yeast that causes thrush
- Trichomonas vaginalis
- Mycoplasma genitalium
- Ureaplasma urealyticum
BV and thrush cause similar symptoms but need different treatment, which is why testing both in one kit matters. If you have had unprotected sex with a new partner, consider a separate STI test as well, since chlamydia and gonorrhoea are not part of this panel.
Who is this test for?
Women and anyone with a vagina who has a change in discharge (grey, thin or watery with BV; thick and white with thrush), a fishy or unusual smell, itching or soreness, or symptoms that keep coming back after over-the-counter thrush treatment. If you are pregnant, have pelvic pain, a fever or bleeding between periods, see a GP or sexual health clinic rather than waiting for a postal result.
How to take the swab
- Wash and dry your hands.
- Insert the Aptima swab about 5 cm into the vagina, rotate it for 10 to 30 seconds, and place it in its tube.
- Repeat with the gel swab.
- Seal both tubes in the bag provided and post the box back the same day if you can.
Most people find it no more uncomfortable than inserting a tampon. There is no need to stop any medication first, but if you have used a vaginal cream or pessary in the last 48 hours, wait before swabbing.
