What is it?
Gardnerella is often associated with Bacterial Vaginosis, and is a very common cause of vaginal infection (vaginitis). Bacterial Vaginosis is the result of bacterial overgrowth (making it different from thrush/ candida which is caused by a yeast). There are many reasons which can cause this imbalance ranging from changing soap to a new sexual partner, using an IUD and not using a condom.
Symptoms
Most people have no symptoms, but a water discharge with a change in colour, a “fishy” odour, itching and burning when urinating are all symptoms of Gardnerella.
Gardnerella Testing
You can be tested at any of our clinics by providing a urine sample. The results are available four days from when your sample is received in the laboratory.
Treatment
It can be treated with a short course of antibiotics which can be prescribed by your Better2Know Doctor or your own GP.
Adverse consequences
If left untreated, the infection can make you more likely to become infected with other STDs including HIV, Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea, you are also likely to pass Gardnerella and other infections on to a new partner.
In women, it can also cause some complications in pregnancy and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) if not treated.