Bacterial Vaginosis 7-Causative Agents Panel PCR (Megasphaera 1, Lactobacillus spp., Bacteroides fragilis, Gardnerella vaginalis, bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis (BVAB2), Atopobium vaginae, Mobiluncus spp.)

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a clinical syndrome most commonly characterized by unusual vaginal discharge, and can lead to premature birth. It may occur during menopause. BV is characterized by a decrease or absence of Lactobacillus spp. bacteria, an increase in Gardnerella vaginalis, and increased potentially pathogenic bacterial complexes, including Atopobium vaginae, Megasphaera type 1, bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis (BVAB2), Bacteroides spp., Mobiluncus spp. Clinical symptoms of BV include increased vaginal pH, vaginal discharge, and an unpleasant odor. BV is associated with an increased risk of sexually transmitted infections, endometritis, pelvic inflammatory disease, postoperative infections following abortion or hysterectomy, an increased risk of HIV infection, and serious pregnancy complications, including miscarriage or premature birth. BV is very common among women of reproductive age and is one of the most common reasons women seek treatment from healthcare professionals.