The Microbiology Lab now recommends using pH tests on vaginal secretions to differentiate between Vaginal Candidiasis and Bacterial Vaginosis (in line with national advice). Link
Trials in 2 GP practices and Genito-Urinary Medicine have shown quicker results with high patient satisfaction, and we expect this will lead to fewer re-consultations.
| When and what to swab? | |
| When and what to swab? | Send triple swabs and consider GUM referral. Write ‘High risk STI’ on request. |
| Other high risk eg post op, post partum | Send HVS. Write details of risk group on request form. |
| Post menopausal | Treat clinically (pH unhelpful) |
| Pre menopausal age less than 25 or concern about Chlamydia (Chlamydia rare in over 25s in general practice) | Do pH test and send swab for Chlamydia test |
| Pre menopausal age more than 3 | Do pH test |
A poster and accompanying training video will soon be available from the CCG. Whatman pH indicator papers are available from Path Stores (Exeter lab 01392 402906)
