Vaginal Microbiome Test

Map the Microbes in your Vagina with the Vaginal Microbiome Test.

Vaginal infections, including bacterial vaginosis (BV), thrush or vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), and trichomoniasis (TV), are among the most common reasons for which women seek medical investigation.

Complex ecosystems of microbes reside in the female reproductive tract. The vagina consists of trillions of microorganisms — mostly bacteria, plus some fungi and viruses. Together, these microbes help to keep the pH balanced and problematic organisms in check.  A healthy vaginal microbiome is dominated by Lactobacillus spp.  A disruption in this ecosystem, usually a deficiency of Lactobacillus and overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria, may result in possible infection and unwanted symptoms.

An estimated 75% of women will have at least one episode of VVC, TV or BV in their lifetime and over 30% of women test positive for BV at any given time, with prevalence rates varying over different populations studied. BV is confirmed to be associated with adverse gynaecological and obstetric outcomes, such as sexually transmitted infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, and preterm birth.

Some of the vaginal organisms are important in keeping the reproductive tract healthy, but inhibiting other, potential pathogenic, organisms from thriving. Disruptions in balance of any of these can lead to infections and/or uncomfortable symptoms. Every vaginal microbiome is different and factors such as age, hormonal disruptions and even antibiotic/probiotic use can contribute to changes.

NOTE: All test results are best delivered by a qualified practitioner in the context of a full health history. We recommend a consultation with one of our health consultants to discuss the test results and review in view of your general health and wellness goals.

 TESTING METHODS USED IN THE VAGINAL MICROBIOME TEST

• qPCR (quantitative PCR)
• MALDI-TOF Culture
• Biochemical methods- pH

TEST PREPARATION INSTRUCTIONS

• This test requires a vaginal swab. It should not be taken during menstruation.
• Refrain from sample collection until at least 2 weeks after completing any antimicrobial therapies (including using antimicrobial douche or vaginal probiotics).

This test includes

• pH
• Opportunistic bacteria
• Viruses
• Parasites
• Fungal pathogens
• Beneficial bacteria

DOWNLOAD A SAMPLE REPORT: 2031-Vaginal Microbiome Test

ABOUT THE LABORATORY

The laboratory running the test samples is NutriPATH, a privately owned medical laboratory founded in 2011. NutriPATH specialises in the area of functional health and well-being pathology testing. Accreditations Include:

• NATA ISO 15189- Requirements for Quality and Competence in Medical Laboratories
• BSI ISO 13485- Quality Management for Medical Devices

The scope of accreditation can be found on the site of the accrediting body.

REFERENCES

• The Female Vaginal Microbiome in Health and Bacterial Vaginosis
• The Vaginal Microbiome: Current Understanding and Future Directions
• Vaginal microbiome of reproductive-age women