Bacterialvaginosisvagimp
A qualitative test to detect bacterial vaginosis by analyzing vaginal fluid samples.
{"BV is a common vaginal infection caused by an imbalance of bacteria","The test uses a qualitative method to determine if BV is present","Sample is collected from the vaginal fluid, not blood","Results are reported as positive, negative, or intermediate","Treatment is available if the test is positive"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 69568-4
- Short code
- BVINT
- Synonyms
- Bacterial vaginosis Vag-Imp
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile vaginal swab transport system (e.g., Amies or Stuart transport medium) or sterile container for vaginal fluid
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- female
- Age range
- 12–90 years
- Method
- Nugent scoring / Amsel criteria interpretation
- CPT
- 87905
- SNOMED
- 419761001
- Specimen volume
- 1 vaginal swab or 0.5-1 mL vaginal fluid
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 24 hours; Frozen (-70°C): 1 week (for molecular testing)
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This test detects bacterial vaginosis (BV) in vaginal fluid samples. Bacterial vaginosis occurs when the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted, leading to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. This qualitative test determines whether BV is present rather than measuring specific levels of bacteria.
The sample is collected from vaginal fluid during a pelvic examination using a swab. Unlike blood tests, this test does not require a serum sample. The sample is then analyzed in a laboratory to identify the characteristic changes associated with BV.
Reference range
Negative for bacterial vaginosis (normal vaginal flora)N/A
Patient should avoid douching, sexual intercourse, and use of vaginal medications or spermicidal agents for at least 24-48 hours prior to specimen collection. Specimen should be collected before pelvic examination if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Bacterial vaginosis is the most common vaginal infection in women of reproductive age. While some women may experience symptoms such as unusual discharge, odor, or discomfort, many cases are asymptomatic. If left untreated, BV can increase the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease, preterm birth in pregnant women, and make individuals more susceptible to sexually transmitted infections. This test helps healthcare providers diagnose BV so appropriate treatment can be prescribed.
Frequently asked questions
How is the sample collected?
Do I need to prepare for this test?
What do the results mean?
How is bacterial vaginosis treated?
Can BV recur after treatment?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy