Tests for Bacterial Vaginosis
How It Is Done
You will take off your clothes below the waist. You will have a gown to drape around your waist. You will then lie on your back on an examination table with your feet raised and supported by stirrups. This is similar to having a pelvic examination or Pap test.
Your doctor will insert a lubricated tool called a Reference speculum Opens New Window into your vagina. The speculum gently spreads apart the vaginal walls, allowing your
doctor to see the inside of the vagina and the
Reference cervix Opens New Window. See a picture of the
Reference vaginal speculum examination Opens New Window Reference 
Opens New Window.
Samples of fluid inside the vagina are then collected with a swab or wooden stick.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference October 22, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease |
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