Bacterial vaginosis or BV is a very treatable infection caused by a change in the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina. You get BV when the normal level of one kind of bacteria, Lactobacillus, is replaced by high levels of other bacteria. The most common bacteria found in BV is Gardnerella vaginalis. The myLAB Box Vaginal Health Combo panel tests for multiple types of bacteria that may cause BV, including Gardnerella vaginalis, making it highly accurate. At-home test kits that screen for fewer types of bacteria may not be able to confirm you have BV and are more likely to have false negative results.
You may get BV after having sex with a new partner or your current partner. Without treatment, BV may increase your chances of getting HIV or other STIs, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea. Having BV while pregnant puts you at greater risk of delivering your baby too early.