FemiClear review: Genital herpes and yeast infection treatment

Bacterial Vaginosis: Home Tests And What To Know

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here's our process.

Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?

Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?

Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Was this helpful?

Home testing for bacterial vaginosis (BV) can provide a person with important information about their vaginal health.

Quick links to at-home BV tests

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common bacterial infection of the vagina. BV occurs when there is a change in the balance of bacteria in the vagina. Researchers do not fully understand the cause, but it frequently occurs in sexually active people, making it more likely for them to contract a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

At-home tests allow a person to self-check for BV. Although the tests can provide a person with information about a possible infection, individuals should always see a doctor if they receive a positive result.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), BV is the most common vaginal condition in people aged 15–44 years.

Despite being common in sexually active people, BV is not an STI. Instead, a person may develop BV due to an imbalance of vaginal bacteria. The Office on Women's Health (OWH) states that some common risk factors for BV include:

Symptoms may be mild or not present at all. If they do occur, the CDC notes that a person may experience some or all of the following:

The symptoms of BV are similar to those of other conditions that affect the vagina, so a person should contact a doctor for advice if they experience them.

Due to the ease of use and availability of at-home tests, a person can test for BV at home before making an appointment with a doctor.

Many at-home tests provide specific instructions on when to test for BV, but most people will test if they notice symptoms. Other reasons to test may include:

for peace of mind

if they're pregnant

if they have a new sexual partner(s)

after sex without a barrier method of birth control

Older 2013 research has shown that most women perform self-tests correctly and that results from home tests are reasonably accurate. At-home tests may check the pH level of the vagina, which can help determine whether a person has BV.

However, not all tests will be 100% accurate, and false negative results are possible.

The pH level is one of four criteria that doctors use to confirm a diagnosis. The other three are:

fishy odor

presence of "clue" cells, which are cells collected from the vaginal wall that show a coating of bacteria

white discharge

After using a home test and returning a positive result, a person should talk with their doctor, who will diagnose and treat the BV.

MNT chooses at-home tests that meet the following criteria:

Reputable companies: MNT chooses companies that offer effective and safe tests that give clear usage instructions. MNT chooses companies that clearly state the capabilities and limitations of their products.

Laboratories: Where possible, MNT will choose companies that process test samples in CLIA-certified labs. This means they follow state and federal regulations.

Budget: MNT chooses at-home tests that suit a wide range of budgets.

Privacy: MNT includes companies that offer robust and transparent privacy measures, such as data protection and discreet packaging.

Test result speed: MNT selects companies that inform customers when they will receive their test results and whether they will receive them via email, app, or phone.

Further support: MNT will indicate whether a company offers further support, such as a follow-up phone consultation with a doctor to discuss test results.

Below is a range of tests that an individual may order online to check for BV.

Best test for results in 2–5 days: myLAB Box BV Home Test

The company will mail a BV testing kit to a person's chosen location in a discreet package. Once it arrives, a person must follow the instructions to perform the test and then return it to the lab.

According to the myLAB Box website, the kit features:

a test that takes fewer than 5 minutes

lab results within 1–5 days

pain-free test

free shipping

consultation with a doctor for those with a positive result

An individual can use their health savings account (HSA) toward the cost of the test.

The company states that many women with BV have no symptoms, and this tests checks for a wide range of bacteria that may cause BV.

This test may be ideal for those who cannot see a doctor and would like to get results quickly. The free consultation may help a person confirm the diagnosis and get a prescription to treat the infection.

The company claims its labs hold College of American Pathologists (CAP) and Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) certifications.

A person can order a myLAB Box BV Home Test online for $99.

Best test for identifying vaginitis strains: Walk-In Lab Vaginosis Profile – Doctor's Data Test Kit

Walk-In-Lab offers a vaginosis profile kit that it claims distinguishes between BV and vulvovaginal candidiasis.

The company states that this test is useful for finding the cause of vaginal discomfort and discharge and persistent yeast infections.

Once a person selects and orders the kit, the company will send the kit directly to a person's chosen location.

After completing the test, an individual will send the sample back to the company for testing. However, the company explicitly states not to collect a sample or send the kit back on a Friday.

According to the company, a person can expect their results within 6–8 days.

The company does not offer consultations or prescriptions for those who receive positive results.

A person can order a Walk-In-Lab Vaginosis Profile test for $170.

Best test for results in seconds: FloriSense Vaginal Health Test

FloriSense claims that its Vaginal Health Test gives results in about 10 seconds. It tests the pH in a person's vagina to identify whether there is an infection.

The company advises that if the swab changes color, it will indicate trichomoniasis (trich) or BV. If the test detects either of these, an individual should contact a doctor for confirmation and treatment.

If there is no color change to the swab, but a person is experiencing symptoms, it could indicate a yeast infection. This is treatable with over-the-counter (OTC) medications.

The box contains two swabs with complete instructions and an information insert.

This test is suitable for those who want an affordable test that provides quick results and may differentiate between BV and a yeast infection.

However, while this test can help determine whether an infection is present, users may have to undergo further testing at a doctor's office to confirm their result.

Additionally, lab tests may provide more accurate results, as scientists can check the samples for specific infection strains under a microscope.

A person can order the FloriSense Vaginal Health Test online for $18.95. It includes two swabs.

Best test that provides prescription medication: LetsGetChecked Vaginitis Test (BV, CV, TV)

This test checks for BV, yeast infections, and trichomonas.

A person uses this test by:

ordering a test kit online

taking a sample by following the instructions and video tutorial

sending it to a LetsGetChecked lab with the provided prepaid shipping label

The company writes that a person will receive their results online within 5 days.

According to LetsGetChecked, a person gets automatic access to medication if they receive a positive result. The company sends treatment to customers at no additional cost. Customers will also get a one-on-one call with a nurse.

A person can get treatment for BV, candidal vaginitis, and trichomonas vaginitis.

LetsGetChecked notes that this test is not suitable for everyone, including those who:

are pregnant

have symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease

have had a procedure to the vaginal area resulting in scarring or damage

cannot use a tampon due to a medical condition

It is also a more expensive option and will not suit those with smaller budgets.

A person can order the LetsGetChecked test online for $239.

Best test for routine monitoring: MedLab Diagnostics Vaginal pH Test Strips

This is a pack of 50 pH test strips that people can use to monitor vaginal acidity levels. The company suggests using these strips regularly to monitor vaginal health and quickly detect any abnormalities.

The company also suggests using them after taking antibiotics or when experiencing symptoms of a condition such as BV.

However, this test cannot specifically indicate if a person has BV or any other condition, as it does not check for strains of bacteria. And the test strips do not go to a lab for further analysis.

Instead, a person can interpret the pH levels on the test strips and seek further testing and medical advice if their results indicate that they are at risk of BV. For instance, a pH level higher than 4.5 may indicate that a person has BV or another vaginal infection.

This product will suit those who want to routinely measure and monitor the acidity levels in the vagina, which may indicate abnormalities.

A person can order a pack of 50 MedLab Diagnostics Vaginal pH Test Strips for $17.99.

Best test for vaginal and urinary tract infections (UTIs): Stix Vaginal Testing Kit

This testing kit by Stix comes with:

three UTI tests

three pH-balanced wipes

two vaginal pH tests

The company says this kit is eligible for purchase with a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA).

A person performs the UTI test by:

wiping the urethra with one of the wipes in the package

peeing on a test strip pad

comparing the color of the test strip pad with the color chart in the kit

A person performs the vaginal pH test by:

inserting the cotton swab into the vagina and holding it against the walls for 5 seconds

removing the cotton swab and wiping it on the pH test strip, making sure not to touch it with anything else

matching the color of the test area to the pH color chart

This test is a viable option for those who are prone to UTIs or vaginal infections. Having this type of kit at home can be helpful for quickly doing a test if a person thinks they have an infection.

However, this kit only checks the pH of the urethra or the vagina. It does not check against strains of bacteria or provide an accurate diagnosis of what might be causing the change in vaginal acidity levels.

Therefore, users should always visit a doctor to confirm a diagnosis, especially if the tests show a positive or abnormal result.

A person can get the Stix Vaginal Testing Kit online for $28.

The table below compares each at-home BV test for its type, price, and uses and whether it indicates a BV infection.

An individual with BV should speak with a doctor to identify the best ways to help support treatment, including minimizing discomfort. A physician can suggest OTC or prescription medication that can safely relieve symptoms such as itching.

The OWH also suggests:

taking all medication, even if symptoms go away

avoiding sexual contact until finishing treatment

avoiding soap around the vaginal area

avoid douching

keeping the vagina cool by wearing cotton underpants

wiping front to back from the vagina to the anus

When possible, a person should visit a doctor if they notice symptoms of BV. The doctor will likely perform a physical examination and run some lab tests.

A person should also contact a doctor if they have positive results from an at-home BV test. A doctor can then confirm a diagnosis and provide treatment. The CDC notes that typical treatment for BV involves antibiotics.

The CDC also warns that BV can come back following treatment. If a person notices recurring symptoms despite the initial treatment, they should speak with a doctor for further evaluation.

The medication and dosage a doctor prescribes for BV will depend on the type of infection a person has, any allergies they may have, and the severity of the BV.

The CDC provides the following BV treatment guidelines for doctors. All of these treatments have approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The CDC specifically recommends oral metronidazole, metronidazole gel, or clindamycin cream as first-line treatment options. It considers the other treatments to be alternatives.

The topical treatments include:

a 5-gram (g) application of 0.75% metronidazole gel inside the vagina daily for 5 days

a 5-g application of 2% clindamycin cream inside the vagina daily for 7 days before going to sleep

Oral treatments include:

500 milligrams (mg) of metronidazole twice a day for 7 days

300 mg of clindamycin twice a day for 7 days

a single dose of 2 g secnidazole

2 g of tinidazole daily for 2 days

1 g of tinidazole daily for 5 days

Learn more about BV medication.

BV can affect the overall health of the vagina and increase a person's risk of developing other vaginal infections. The CDC also advises that a person's risk of the following conditions increases with untreated BV:

The OWH offers the following advice on lowering the risk of developing BV:

using warm water only on the outside of the vagina, avoiding soaps

avoiding sexual activity

avoiding douching

using condoms or dental dams during sex

Below are answers to the top frequently asked questions about BV.

What happens if bacterial vaginosis goes untreated?

BV can sometimes go away on its own without treatment. However, untreated BV can increase a person's risk of a range of serious health conditions, some of which can affect fertility.

A person with untreated BV may be at a higher risk of getting or transmitting HIV, experiencing premature delivery if pregnant, and getting chlamydia or gonorrhea, which can increase the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease. This condition can affect a person's ability to have children.

Is bacterial vaginosis an STD?

BV is not an STI. According to the CDC, it is an imbalance of certain types of bacteria in the vagina.

Will BV go away on its own?

The CDC states that BV can sometimes go away on its own. However, a person should always seek treatment from a doctor for BV as it can increase a person's risk of STIs and serious health conditions.

BV causes itchiness, pain, and abnormal discharge in the vagina. The bacterial infection can cause a person to be more likely to contract other infections, such as common STIs.

A person can test for BV using a home testing kit, which they can often purchase online or at a local pharmacy. Individuals should speak with their doctor if they receive a positive result from any at-home test.

10 Best Bv Treatments

10 Best Bv TreatmentsHealth & householdRecombu Product Features

FINALLY, SAFE & EFFECTIVE NATURAL SUPPORT FOR VAGINAL DISCOMFORT! Our feminine Boric suppositories capsules support vaginal health by balancing your pH level. It's time you take care of your wellbeing, once and for all!

FEEL REFRESHED! These tablets are made with the best ingredients and are also considered the best feminine wash, hygiene odor-reducing, and pH balancing!

RELIEF THAT PROMOTES A HEALTHY pH BALANCE! Simply insert 1 Suppository capsule per day into the vagina using an applicator or your finger before bedtime for 7 consecutive days.

SATISFACTION GUARANTEE! When it comes to women's health and well-being, we don't take any chances. We confidently back our tested and approved Boric acid suppository with a hassle-free.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER - These statements have NOT been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Product Features

Lightweight jersey cotton blend with stretch

Bikini-style panties

Moderate coverage

Tag-free

An Amazon brand

Colors may vary

Product Features

RESTORE YOUR NATURAL PH BALANCE: Our boric acid suppositories restore your natural pH levels to support a healthy vagina

GET RELIEF FROM BURNING & ITCHING: Soothe and eliminate unpleasant symptoms of vaginal odor, itching, burning and discharge

RECEIVE MEDICAL GRADE QUALITY: Our boric acid pills contain 600 mg of 100% pure boric acid powder completely free of fillers or unnatural chemicals.

GET PEACE OF MIND: This feminine care product is proudly made in the USA in an FDA registered GMP facility and backed by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee return policy.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER - These statements have NOT been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any of the following conditions, contagious diseases, treatments or infections: Bacterial vaginosis treatment, bv treatment, bacterial infection treatment, bacteriosis treatment, fertility treatment

Product Features

Everything You Need In 1 Kit: Contains 30 vaginal suppositories and 7 plastic applicators for vaginal insertion (do not swallow); vegan capsules dissolve faster than gelatin.

Fast Acting: pure Boric Acid suppository capsules effectively prevent odors and discharge from BV and changes vaginal pH; reduce vaginial itching in as little as 24 hours; feel fresh, clean, and confident.

Backed By Science: Many alternative feminine hygiene products are ineffective, but Intimate Rose Boric Acid is proven to quickly restore that fresh feeling.

100% Purity Guaranteed: Our pharmaceutical grade Boric Acid is a natural solution for yeast and other issues, made in a facility right here in the USA to ensure a safe and effective formula for BV.

Use In Comfort: Insert using applicator, does not hurt or burn, gentle solution to restore vaginal health; stay clean and dry (unlike with gel or cream). PH balance for women is critical for your health.

*Safety Warning: Do not use near open wounds. Do not use on already irritated or broken skin. Discontinue use immediately if any irritation, redness, rash or itching worsens. Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Do not use if pregnant.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Product Features

CLINICALLY PROVEN pH BALANCE FOR BV TREATMENT - In a study involving 48 women, 83% experienced significant improvements in recurrent BV symptoms like vaginal odor, pH balance, itching, and discharge compared to commercial-grade probiotics!

PREBIOTICS AND PROBIOTICS FOR DIGESTIVE HEALTH: We paired the most researched prebiotic, PREFORPRO, with the a patented Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium to optimize gut health! PreforPro has been clinically shown to make probiotics 6x more effective!

GOES WELL WITH BORIC ACID SUPPOSITORIES: Taking a BV Suppository? Pair them up with They say priobiotics form in the gut, so we need to tackle the digestion of foods. Happy V Pre Pro includes a Clinical Blend of 5 digestive enzymes supplements to ensure the proper breakdown of food and support gut health

HIGHEST QUALITY GUARANTEE: 7 patented and trademarked probitoic strains that are shelf-stable, NONGMO, Vegan Friendly, Dairy Free, Soy Free, Gluten Free and Made in the USA. 20 Billion Live Probiotic Cultures Gauranteed

ACID RESISTANT VEGAN CAPSULES - Our gluten and filler free vegetable capsules are shown to pass the digestive system and make it to the vaginal flora. This allows for the biotics to work as an antibacterial supplement for balanced pH for the prevention of chronic vaginitis issues

Product Features

FAST, EASY TO USE ODOR RELIEF – Balance Activ's fast acting and easy to use Odor Relief solutions are for women who want to quickly address vaginal odor

NATURAL DEFENSE – Balance Activ's Odor Relief is formulated with glycogen which provides nutrients that encourage the growth of lactobacilli which provide a natural and effective way to maintain a healthy pH balance

CLINICALLY PROVEN RELIEF FOR SYMPTOMS – Balance Activ is clinically proven to neutralize vaginal odor and restore feminine freshness

FRESHENS & RESTORES NORMAL pH and VAGINAL FLORA – For when you need a restorative rebound after your period, sex, exercising, perspiring, or anytime vaginal balance is desired

MORE INFORMATION – Read included leaflet before use. Do not use if you have a shellfish allergy, vaginal infection, or yeast infection. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and this product is not labeled as a treatment in the United States. It should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent: vaginal diseases, vaginitis, BV or infections

Product Features

MONITOR YOUR VAGINAL HEALTH- Check for vaginal disease or ph imbalances.

QUICK AND EASY RESULTS- Add your sample to the ph pad, wait 15 seconds, and compare your strip to color chart for results.

SEALED POUCHES-50 strips in two sealed pouches to maintain freshness

EASY TO READ COLOR CHART-Normal v.S Abnormal results on the color chart are easy to distinguish and interpret. PH values 3.0 to 6.5.

DETAILED GUIDE- Detailed Instructions on how to test with info about vaginal diseases and prevention.

Product Features

FEMININE ISSUES GUARANTEE - Balance Complex is backed by AFT (Advanced Formulation Technology) and is the only product manufactured with such a strong guarantee. If you don't see the difference with Balance Complex for any reason we will refund you all your money including shipping costs. Made in the USA in a FDA registered laboratory and GMP certified facility. COVERED by Amazon Guarantee and Worry Free Return Policy.

VAGINAL PROBIOTICS to help to help with vaginal itching relief, vaginal discharge, vaginosis treatment, support healthy intestinal function, bladder support and helps support vaginal health. All-Natural Supplement formula that is the ultimate women's probiotic. For restoration and maintenance of vaginal acidity. Perfect before/after intimacy - supports vaginal odor.

Promotes OPTIMAL VAGINAL HEALTH and candida support with candida balance and candida cleanse by method of balancing ph. No more female odor, female smell, vaginal discharge and bv with this daily supplement for women.

FLORA IMBALANCE SUPPORT with vaginal flora support supplement. Balance complex for women is the quality vaginal natural supplement for vaginal hygiene treatment to maintain feminine wellness and freshness. Dietary supplement pills that could complement a feminine wash, feminine soap, vaginal cream, or douche to restore feminine balance and ph control.

MAXIMUM STRENGTH feminine hygiene supplement consists of Oregano Extract (1.75% volatile oils), Caprylic Acid (magnesium caprylate), Protease , L.Acidophilus, Cellulase , Aloe Vera Gel, Arabinogalactan (FiberAid) , Anise Seed , Reishi Mushroom, Black Walnut Hulls, Wormwood (artemisia). Ingredients can be considered a prebiotic and probiotic rebalance feminine hygiene

Product Features

Complete Vaginal Care Kit - Alleviate your unwanted vaginal issues quickly and efficiently with our medical-grade boric acid suppositories, pH Test Strips, and Applicator.

Restore Your Natural pH Balance - Maintain your vaginal pH to a healthy range, eliminating vaginal odors and supporting vaginal health.

Perfect for Vaginal Health - The perfect solution to balance your vaginal environment after sex, at the end of your period, or when experiencing odor.

Fast, Safe, and Effective - Proud to provide you the highest quality 100% pure boric acid powder (600mg) made in the USA in an FDA registered GMP facility.

Legal Disclaimer - These statements have NOT been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any conditions.

Apple Cider Vinegar For BV (Bacterial Vaginosis)

Although there are indications that apple cider vinegar may have some limited medical applications, scientific research has not proved many of the claims.

About 29 percent of women in the United States have bacterial vaginosis (BV). Although some women experience no symptoms, others may notice an unpleasant smell coming from their vagina.

Some women also experience itching and burning feelings and sometimes, an unusual gray discharge.

According to a 2016 study, about 75 percent of women have tried to treat BV with home remedies, such as:

vinegar baths

douching

yogurt (orally or vaginally)

probiotics

vitamin supplements

over-the-counter yeast infection treatment products

antiseptic creams

The same study indicated that data on the effectiveness of alternative treatments for BV are predominantly of poor quality. Most of the women reported their self-help remedies did not help, and, in some cases made the symptoms worse.

Natural healers suggest treating BV with apple cider vinegar. They justify their recommendation by drawing a correlation (that may or may not be medically sound) from the following research:

Vinegar has been used effectively for thousands of years as a disinfectant as well as a treatment for a variety of conditions from jellyfish stings to diabetes.

According to a 2018 study, ACV demonstrates antimicrobial effects directly on E-coli, S. Aureus, and C. Albicans.

ACV contains acetic acid which has been proven effective in limiting the growth of bacteria, according to a 2014 article.

According to a 2017 article, ACV was effective in curing vaginal candida infection.

Evidence from a 2016 study suggests lactic acid-based treatments may offer some benefit in BV treatment, and ACV contains lactic acid.

As part of the diagnosis, your doctor might use a pH test strip to check the acidity of your vagina. If your vagina has a pH of 4.5 or higher, it could be an indication of bacterial vaginosis. You can also buy an at-home pH test at your drugstore or online.

Because ACV is acidic and has antimicrobial effects, proponents of natural healing suggest that rinsing the vulva in a solution of apple cider vinegar and water may alleviate symptoms.

A 2015 article indicated that vaginal-acidifying holds some promise for long-term prevention

If you've been diagnosed with BV, your doctor might prescribe medication such as:

It's important that you follow your doctor's instructions and keep taking the medication according to your doctor's instructions. Don't stop mid-treatment, even if your symptoms go away. You increase your risk for recurrence if you stop treatment early.

If you have bacterial vaginosis, you can take steps to avoid exacerbating the infection. These steps can also help you avoid BV:

Don't douche.

Avoid scented or perfumed soaps and sanitary products.

Use soap on your vulva, but do not insert soap into your vagina.

Wipe from front to back to avoid wiping fecal matter into your vagina.

Keep the area around your vagina dry.

Wear cotton underwear.

Wash your hands before touching your vagina.

Never transition directly from anal to vaginal sex.

Vinegar has been used to flavor and preserve food for thousands of years. It's also celebrated for its ability to clean surfaces, fight infections, heal wounds, and manage diabetes. Today, many people consider it an answer to almost any health need.

Although there are indications that apple cider vinegar may have some limited medical applications, scientific research has not proved many of the claims. Future investigations are necessary before drawing scientifically sound conclusions.

If you're considering using ACV as part of your treatment of bacterial vaginosis, talk to your doctor about the pros and cons prior to making a final decision.

---