Vaginal Microbiome Test

About this test

What Does the Test Measure?

The Vaginal Microbiome Test provides a comprehensive analysis of the microorganisms that contribute to vaginal health. Rather than looking for a single pathogen, the test evaluates the overall balance of the vaginal microbiome by analysing beneficial bacteria, bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis, opportunistic microorganisms, and several clinically relevant Candida species.

The analysis includes:

• Vaginal pH

• Bacterial diversity

• Community State Type (CST)

• Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) Score

• Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) synthesis index

• Beneficial Lactobacillus species

• Bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis

• Anaerobic accompanying flora

• Seven Candida species commonly associated with vaginal yeast infections

Together, these markers provide a detailed picture of the vaginal ecosystem and help identify microbial imbalances that may influence vaginal health.

Why Are Lactobacillus Species Important?

Beneficial Lactobacillus bacteria are the foundation of a healthy vaginal microbiome. They help maintain an acidic vaginal environment, produce antimicrobial substances such as lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide, and inhibit the growth of potentially harmful microorganisms.

The test evaluates both the overall abundance of Lactobacillus and the dominant species, including Lactobacillus crispatus, L. gasseri, L. jensenii, and L. iners. Different species may influence vaginal health in different ways, making this information valuable when assessing the overall microbial balance.

Bacterial Vaginosis and Vaginal Dysbiosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is one of the most common causes of abnormal vaginal discharge and odour. Rather than being caused by a single bacterium, BV develops when the normal balance of the vaginal microbiome shifts away from protective Lactobacillus species towards a more diverse community of anaerobic bacteria.

This test evaluates several bacteria commonly associated with bacterial vaginosis and calculates a BV Score, providing a comprehensive assessment of microbial patterns associated with vaginal dysbiosis.

Candida Screening

Recurrent vaginal yeast infections can significantly affect quality of life. While Candida albicans is the most common cause, other Candida species may also contribute and can sometimes respond differently to treatment.

The test screens for seven clinically relevant Candida species, helping provide a broader understanding of yeast overgrowth than tests that only assess a single species.

Who Is This Test Suitable For?

The Vaginal Microbiome Test may be suitable for women who:

• Experience recurrent vaginal yeast infections

• Have symptoms suggestive of bacterial vaginosis

• Notice unusual vaginal discharge or odour

• Experience itching, irritation, or discomfort

• Have recurring vaginal symptoms without a clear explanation

• Wish to evaluate their vaginal microbiome after antibiotic treatment

• Want to monitor their vaginal health during hormonal changes, including menopause

• Are interested in proactively monitoring their vaginal microbiome

Laboratory Analysis

The test is performed using a simple vaginal swab collected at home.

Beneficial bacteria and other microorganisms are analysed using metagenomic sequencing (NGS), allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of the vaginal microbiome. Candida species are analysed using PCR, a highly sensitive molecular method for detecting yeast DNA.

All analyses are performed by an ISO 15189-accredited laboratory, ensuring high standards of analytical quality and laboratory competence.

Biomarkers included

• Bacterial Vaginosis Score: Vaginal Health Overview — The Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) Score is a diagnostic tool that quantifies the presence and relative abundance of specific bacteria and other vaginal microorganisms associated with bacterial vaginosis. It is crucial for diagnosing this common vaginal condition, which can lead to increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease, preterm birth, and sexually transmitted infections.
• Diversity: Vaginal Health Overview — Diversity refers to the variety of bacterial species present in the gut microbiome. A higher microbial diversity is generally associated with better digestive health, immune function, and resilience against pathogens. Low diversity, on the other hand, may be linked to inflammation, poor nutrient absorption, and various chronic health conditions.
• pH value: Vaginal Health Overview — The stool pH value is a measure that indicates the acidity or alkalinity in the intestines. It reflects the balance of metabolic processes such as fermentation and protein breakdown. A low stool pH often suggests increased fermentation of complex sugars by intestinal bacteria, which can acidify the stool. Conversely, a high stool pH may result from excessive protein metabolism, leading to the prod
• Vaginal Type / Community State Type (CST): Vaginal Health Overview — Vaginal Type / Community State Type (CST) refers to the composition of the microbial community residing in the vagina, primarily dominated by specific bacterial species. Maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiome, characterized by a specific CST, is crucial for preventing infections, supporting reproductive health, and influencing pregnancy outcomes.
• H2O2 Synthesis index: Vaginal Health Overview — The H2O2 Synthesis Index is a measure of the rate at which hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is produced within specific cells or tissues. This index is important because H2O2 is a reactive oxygen species (ROS) that plays a dual role in cellular function, acting as both a signaling molecule and a contributor to oxidative stress when its production is imbalanced. Measuring this index can help assess cellula
• Lactobacillus (total): Protective Lactobacillus Flora — Lactobacillus (total) refers to the overall count of bacteria belonging to the Lactobacillus genus. These are a group of beneficial bacteria commonly found in the gut, vagina, and other body sites, playing a crucial role in maintaining a healthy microbial balance and supporting various bodily functions.
• Lactobacillus iners: Protective Lactobacillus Flora — Lactobacillus iners is a species of bacteria commonly found in the vaginal microbiome. Its presence and abundance can indicate the health and balance of the vaginal flora, as it is often associated with bacterial vaginosis when overgrown or dominating other beneficial bacteria. Monitoring Lactobacillus iners can help assess an individual's risk for vaginal infections and other related health issue
• Lactobacillus jensenii: Protective Lactobacillus Flora — Lactobacillus jensenii is a common species of beneficial bacteria found in the vaginal microbiome of healthy individuals. Its presence is important as it helps maintain an acidic vaginal pH, which is crucial for preventing the overgrowth of harmful pathogens that can cause infections.
• Lactobacillus gasseri: Protective Lactobacillus Flora — Lactobacillus gasseri is a type of lactic acid bacteria commonly found in the human gut and vagina. Its presence and abundance are indicators of the overall health and balance of the vaginal microbiome, and imbalances can be associated with various gynecological conditions.
• Lactobacillus crispatus: Protective Lactobacillus Flora — Lactobacillus crispatus is a beneficial bacterium commonly found in the vaginal microbiome. Its presence is associated with a healthy vaginal environment, as it helps maintain an acidic pH and inhibits the growth of potentially harmful pathogens. Higher levels of L. crispatus often indicate a balanced vaginal flora.
• Dialister spp.: Bacterial Vaginosis-Associated Bacteria — Dialister spp. are a group of bacteria that are commonly found in the human gut microbiome. Their presence and abundance can be altered in various health conditions, particularly those affecting the gut or oral cavity. Changes in Dialister spp. levels may serve as a potential indicator for certain inflammatory conditions or infections.
• BVAB*-2: Bacterial Vaginosis-Associated Bacteria — BVAB-2 is a panel of autoantibodies that can be elevated in individuals with celiac disease. Testing for BVAB-2 can help diagnose celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder where gluten damages the small intestine.
• Aerococcus christensenii: Bacterial Vaginosis-Associated Bacteria — Aerococcus christensenii is a type of bacteria that can be found in the human gut. Its presence or elevated levels in specific clinical samples, such as urine or an intestinal biopsy, can indicate a urinary tract infection or other bacterial infections. Detecting Aerococcus christensenii is important for diagnosing and managing these infections, leading to appropriate antibiotic treatment.
• BVAB*-3: Bacterial Vaginosis-Associated Bacteria — BVAB-3 is a novel biomarker that can help detect the presence of certain bacterial vaginosis-associated bacteria, which are common causes of vaginal infections. Elevated levels of BVAB-3 may indicate an imbalance in the vaginal microbiome, potentially leading to symptoms and complications.
• Eggerthella spp.: Bacterial Vaginosis-Associated Bacteria — Eggerthella spp. are a group of bacteria commonly found in the human gut microbiome. Elevated levels of certain Eggerthella species are increasingly associated with the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and other gastrointestinal disorders, making them a potential indicator of gut health.
• Gardnerella vaginalis: Bacterial Vaginosis-Associated Bacteria — Gardnerella vaginalis is a type of bacteria commonly found in the vaginal microbiome. Its presence, particularly in elevated amounts, is a significant indicator of bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common vaginal infection that can increase the risk of other reproductive health issues.
• Mobiluncus spp.: Bacterial Vaginosis-Associated Bacteria — Mobiluncus spp. are bacteria commonly found in the vaginal microbiome. Their presence, especially in elevated numbers, is strongly associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common vaginal infection that can increase the risk of other reproductive health issues.
• Bacteroides fragilis: Bacterial Vaginosis-Associated Bacteria — Bacteroides fragilis is a bacterium that can live in the intestinal tract and is part of the broader Bacteroides group. Bacteroides bacteria are involved in breaking down complex carbohydrates and other dietary components, which supports normal gut fermentation and nutrient processing. In balanced levels, Bacteroides fragilis can be part of the normal gut environment. Changes in its levels may ref
• Dialister micraerophilus: Bacterial Vaginosis-Associated Bacteria — Dialister micraerophilus is a bacterium commonly found in the human gut microbiome. Its presence and abundance can be indicative of the overall health and balance of the gut, and shifts in its levels have been associated with various gastrointestinal conditions.
• Megasphaera spp.: Bacterial Vaginosis-Associated Bacteria — Megasphaera spp. are a type of anaerobic bacteria found in the gut microbiome, particularly in ruminants like cattle. The presence and abundance of specific Megasphaera species are increasingly recognized as indicators of gut health and metabolic status, influencing nutrient absorption and volatile fatty acid production.
• Prevotella spp.: Bacterial Vaginosis-Associated Bacteria — Prevotella spp. are a group of bacteria commonly found in the human gut and oral cavity. Their presence and abundance can be indicative of various physiological states and are currently being researched for their association with inflammation and certain diseases.
• Atopobium vaginae: Bacterial Vaginosis-Associated Bacteria — Atopobium vaginae is a type of bacteria that is normally present in the vaginal microbiome. Elevated levels of Atopobium vaginae, often in conjunction with other bacteria, can indicate a disruption in the vaginal flora, potentially leading to conditions such as bacterial vaginosis.
• BVAB*-1: Bacterial Vaginosis-Associated Bacteria — BVAB-1 is a specific protein fragment that is elevated in the blood when there is an active tuberculosis infection. Measuring BVAB-1 levels can help confirm a diagnosis of tuberculosis, especially in situations where other diagnostic methods are challenging.
• Finegoldia spp.: Opportunistic Bacteria — Finegoldia spp. are anaerobic Gram-positive bacteria that are part of the normal human microbiota, particularly in the oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract. Their presence in normally sterile body sites or at elevated levels can indicate an infection, often linked to abscesses or other localized infections, particularly in combination with other anaerobic bacteria.
• Veillonella spp.: Opportunistic Bacteria — Veillonella spp. are a genus of anaerobic Gram-negative bacteria commonly found in the human gut and oral cavity. Their presence and abundance can indicate shifts in the gut microbiome composition, potentially influencing metabolic processes and immune responses. Analyzing Veillonella spp. can therefore provide insights into gut health and related conditions.
• Other bacteria: Opportunistic Bacteria — The 'Other bacteria' biomarker refers to the presence and quantity of bacterial species that are not specifically identified or quantified in a particular test panel but are detected in a sample. Monitoring these bacteria is important for understanding the overall microbial community and its potential impact on health or disease, as they can contribute to inflammation, infection, or imbalances wit
• Bacteroides spp.: Opportunistic Bacteria — Bacteroides spp. are a group of bacteria commonly found in the human gut microbiome. Their presence and abundance are indicative of gut health and can be influenced by diet and other factors. Changes in Bacteroides levels can be associated with various gastrointestinal conditions and metabolic health.
• Escherichia spp.: Opportunistic Bacteria — Escherichia spp. refers to a group of bacteria, commonly known as E. coli. While many strains are harmless and reside in the gut, certain strains can cause infections and are important indicators of fecal contamination in water or food, or can signal gastrointestinal infections in humans and animals.
• Corynebacterium spp.: Opportunistic Bacteria — Corynebacterium spp. refers to a group of bacteria commonly found on the skin and mucous membranes of humans. While many species are harmless commensals, certain species can cause infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems, and are therefore important indicators of health status and potential infection.
• Parvimonas spp.: Opportunistic Bacteria — Parvimonas spp. are a group of anaerobic bacteria commonly found in the human oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract. Their presence can be indicative of dysbiosis, or an imbalance in the gut microbiome, and has been associated with certain inflammatory conditions.
• Ureaplasma spp.: Opportunistic Bacteria — Ureaplasma spp. are a group of bacteria that can colonize the genitourinary tract. Their presence can be associated with reproductive health issues, including infertility, pregnancy complications, and genitourinary inflammation. Testing for Ureaplasma spp. helps identify potential infections that may require treatment.
• Anaerococcus spp.: Opportunistic Bacteria — Anaerococcus spp. are a group of anaerobic bacteria commonly found in the human gut and other body sites. An increase in their presence, particularly in atypical locations, can be indicative of an infection or dysbiosis, suggesting an imbalance in the resident microbial community.
• Mycoplasma spp.: Opportunistic Bacteria — Mycoplasma spp. refers to a genus of bacteria that are common causes of respiratory and urogenital infections. Detecting their presence is important for diagnosing and effectively treating these infections, as they can cause symptoms ranging from mild cough to more serious pneumonia or pelvic inflammatory disease.
• Lachnospiraceae: Opportunistic Bacteria — Lachnospiraceae is a group of bacteria commonly found in the gut microbiome. Their abundance and activity can be indicative of the overall health and balance of the gut, as they play roles in nutrient metabolism and immune system regulation. Shifts in Lachnospiraceae levels can be associated with various gastrointestinal conditions.
• Gemella spp.: Opportunistic Bacteria — Gemella spp. are bacteria commonly found in the human mouth and upper respiratory tract. Their presence, particularly in normally sterile body sites, can indicate an infection, such as endocarditis, or be associated with other medical conditions.
• Streptococcus spp.: Opportunistic Bacteria — Streptococcus spp. refers to a group of bacteria commonly found in the human throat and on the skin. Their detection is important because certain species, like Streptococcus pyogenes, can cause infections such as strep throat, scarlet fever, and more serious conditions like rheumatic fever or skin infections.
• Sneathia spp.: Opportunistic Bacteria — Sneathia spp. are a group of bacteria commonly found in the human gut and reproductive tract. Their presence and abundance can be indicative of specific health conditions, particularly those related to the vaginal microbiome and potentially certain inflammatory processes.
• Candida krusei: Candida Species — Candida krusei is a species of yeast that can be part of the gut mycobiome but is generally present in low numbers. It is known for its natural resistance to certain antifungal treatments, particularly fluconazole, making its identification clinically relevant. An overgrowth of C. krusei may occur in individuals with compromised gut flora, immune suppression, or high sugar intake. Elevated levels
• Candida parapsilosis: Candida Species — Candida parapsilosis is a yeast species that can be part of the normal human microbiota, particularly on the skin and in the gastrointestinal tract. While often harmless in healthy individuals, it can become opportunistic and cause infections, especially in hospitalized or immunocompromised patients. It is commonly associated with catheter-related infections, wound infections, and sometimes gastro
• Candida glabrata: Candida Species — Candida glabrata is a species of yeast that can naturally reside in the human gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts. While typically harmless in healthy individuals, it can become opportunistic in immunocompromised hosts, potentially leading to infections. Compared to other Candida species, C. glabrata tends to be more resistant to common antifungal treatments. Its overgrowth in stool samples
• Candida dubliniensis: Candida Species — Candida dubliniensis is a yeast species closely related to Candida albicans and can be part of the normal microbial flora in the gastrointestinal tract. Under certain conditions, such as weakened immunity, dysbiosis, or high sugar intake, it can overgrow and contribute to fungal imbalance and gastrointestinal symptoms. It is less common than C. albicans but shares many similar characteristics, inc
• Candida lusitaniae: Candida Species — Candida lusitaniae is a less common yeast species that can be part of the normal flora in the human body but has been associated with opportunistic infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. It is notable for its potential resistance to certain antifungal treatments, especially amphotericin B. In stool analysis, the presence of C. lusitaniae may indicate fungal overgrowt
• Candida tropicalis: Candida Species — Candida tropicalis is a yeast species that can exist as part of the normal human microbiota, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract and mucosal surfaces. It has a higher pathogenic potential compared to some other non-albicans Candida species and is commonly associated with systemic infections in immunocompromised individuals. In the gut, elevated levels of C. tropicalis may suggest fungal ove
• Candida albicans: Candida Species — Candida albicans is a type of yeast that can affect different parts of the body, most commonly causing vaginal yeast infections and gut overgrowth. Vaginal infections lead to itching, discomfort, and discharge, often resulting from an imbalance in natural flora. In the gut, overgrowth of Candida albicans can disrupt digestion, leading to bloating and changes in bowel habits. Factors such as diet,

How to prepare

Avoid the use of vaginal creams, lubricants, or douches for at least 48 hours prior to sampling. Do not collect the sample during menstruation.

Frequently asked questions

How is this different from a standard GP swab?

A standard GP swab typically uses PCR to look for specific pathogens like BV or Yeast. This test uses sequencing to look at the entire ecosystem, including beneficial bacteria and the balance of all microbes present.

What can this test tell me?

The test provides insight into the balance of your vaginal microbiome, including beneficial bacteria, bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis, several Candida species, vaginal pH, bacterial diversity, and other markers that contribute to vaginal health.

Can this test identify Cytolytic Vaginosis?

Yes, this test can identify an overgrowth of Lactobacillus, which is the primary indicator of Cytolytic Vaginosis (CV), a condition often misdiagnosed as a yeast infection.

Should I stop using vaginal products before sampling?

Avoid vaginal creams, lubricants, douches, or other intravaginal products for at least 24 hours before collecting the sample unless otherwise instructed by your healthcare provider.

Customer reviews

4.6/5 (5)

• 4/5 — Great report, but the 3-week wait is a bit long.
• 4/5 — Finally found out I had a CST IV profile which explains so much. Results took about 18 days but the detail was worth it.
• 5/5 — Highly recommend for anyone with chronic issues.
• 5/5 — Easy to use and the instructions were very clear.
• 5/5 — This helped me realize my ‘yeast infections’ were actually something else entirely. Better than the basic swabs at my doctor's office.