Gardnerella vaginalis - rapid test

 General information

Gardnerella vaginalis Antigen Test – Fast and Reliable Diagnosis of Vaginal Secretions

Gardnerella vaginalis is a key microorganism associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV) – one of the most common disturbances of the vaginal microbiota. For accurate and timely diagnosis, our laboratory offers an antigen test for Gardnerella vaginalis as an additional examination to the standard vaginal secretion analysis.

The antigen test enables rapid detection of specific Gardnerella vaginalis proteins, making it a valuable method when BV or mixed vaginal infections are suspected.

What is Bacterial Vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis is a condition in which the normal vaginal flora, dominated by lactobacilli, is disrupted. Anaerobic bacteria overgrow, including:

• Gardnerella vaginalis

• Mobiluncus spp.

• Prevotella spp.

• Atopobium vaginae

 Gardnerella vaginalis Antigen Test

The antigen test is a rapid, sensitive, and specific method that detects proteins characteristic of Gardnerella vaginalis.

When is testing for Gardnerella vaginalis recommended?

• symptoms of bacterial vaginosis

• recurrent vaginal infections

• changes in odor or discharge

• discomfort after sexual intercourse

• routine gynecological screening

• during pregnancy (as recommended by a physician)

Advantages of Testing in Our Laboratory

• high‑sensitivity antigen test

• fast and accurate results

• discretion and professional care

Recommendations for Additional Testing – Based on Microbiologist Assessment

The microbiologist may recommend additional tests, also performed at SMDL Laborexpres 2000. This is especially important in cases of:

• recurrent infections

• mixed infections

• unclear causative agent

• suspected sexually transmitted pathogens

Possible additional tests include:

PCR for Vaginal Microbiome

• assessment of balance between beneficial and pathogenic bacteria

• detection of hard‑to‑culture microorganisms

• precise diagnosis in chronic or recurrent symptoms

PCR for Sexually Transmitted Pathogens

Useful when suspecting:

• Chlamydia trachomatis

• Mycoplasma genitalium

• Ureaplasma spp.

• Trichomonas vaginalis

• other STI pathogens

HPV Testing

• detection of high‑risk HPV types

• assessment of cervical risk

• recommended for abnormal Pap smears or per gynecologist’s advice

These tests provide high diagnostic value and support the selection of the most appropriate treatment.

Most common symptoms of bacterial vaginosis

• grey‑white discharge

• unpleasant “fishy” odor

• mild burning or discomfort

• absence of significant redness or itching

BV often presents without symptoms but may lead to complications, including increased risk of infections and pregnancy‑related issues. Accurate diagnosis is therefore essential.

Sample required : swab vaginal (no gel)

Sample Collection Instructions

• No vaginal douching or intimate gels for at least 48 hours before testing.

• No sexual intercourse 24–48 hours prior to sample collection.

• Avoid vaginal medications (globules, creams, tablets) for at least 72 hours unless otherwise instructed by a physician.

• Do not test during menstruation; the optimal time is 2–3 days after the end of the cycle.

• Intimate hygiene: only external washing with water is allowed on the day of the test.