Vaginal pH and Lactobacilli Count (Qualitative and Quantitative Assessment)
This test evaluates the balance of bacteria and acidity in your vaginal environment, which can affect vaginal health and symptoms like itching or unusual discharge.
["Understanding your vaginal microbiome helps identify imbalances that may require medical attention."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 62461-9
- Short code
- T vaginalis DNA Vag Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- T vaginalis DNA Vag Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Matters
Vaginal pH measures the acidity level, which is normally slightly acidic due to lactic acid produced by healthy lactobacilli bacteria. An abnormal pH may indicate infections or other changes in the vaginal environment. Lactobacilli count assesses the presence of these beneficial bacteria, which help protect against harmful microbes.
What to Expect During the Test
A healthcare provider will collect a sample from your vagina using a sterile swab or probe. The sample is then analyzed to measure pH levels and count lactobacilli. This test is typically done as part of a routine gynecological exam or if you have symptoms like unusual discharge, itching, or discomfort.
Common Causes of Abnormal Results
High vaginal pH or low lactobacilli count may suggest conditions like bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, or other infections. These imbalances can cause symptoms such as discharge, odor, or irritation. Low levels of lactobacilli can also increase vulnerability to sexually transmitted infections.
What You Can Do at Home
Maintaining good vaginal hygiene involves using unscented, pH-balanced products and avoiding douching, which can disrupt the natural balance. Wearing breathable cotton underwear and avoiding tight-fitting clothing can also help. If you notice changes in discharge or symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal vaginal pH or lactobacilli levels are often indicators of infections or inflammatory processes. These findings can guide treatment decisions, such as prescribing antibiotics for bacterial vaginosis or antifungal medications for yeast infections. Monitoring these parameters helps in managing chronic conditions and preventing complications like pelvic inflammatory disease.
Short name
Vaginal Microbiome Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a high vaginal pH mean?
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can diet affect the results of this vaginal microbiome test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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