FASTSCREEN | BIOSYNEX - Vaginal infections rapid test (3 tests) | Discriminate vaginal infections

Normal vaginal secretion is produced from the lining of vagina, cervical gland and endometrium. It has a cleansing and protective effect on the vagina. It has little or no odor, is milky white or clear and slightly sticky. The amount of secretion varies during the menstrual cycle and increases during sexual excitement.

Vaginal Infection
Vaginal infection is a common gynaecological problem which can affect women of all ages. It is often due to candida and trichomonas, but can be caused by other bacteria as well. Menopausal women are more susceptible to vaginal infection because of lack of oestrogen.

Symptoms of vaginal infection include:
- Increase in the amount of discharge
- The discharge turns yellow or green, foul-smelling or bloodstained
- Itching, pain or redness around the vulva
- Pain during urination

Candidiasis (Moniliasis)
The most common type of vaginal infection is caused by Candida, a type of yeast (fungus). Many women have recurrent infection which may be due to small amount of yeast colonised inside the vagina.

When there are changes in the body or vaginal environment, candida will multiply and cause vaginal infection. These changes include pregnancy, diabetes, taking high dose oral contraceptive pills, antibiotic use, chronic illness, or wearing tight-fitting clothing or synthetic underwear. Symptoms of candidiasis include itching, pain or redness around the genital area, thick white vaginal discharge and painful intercourse.

Vaginal infections self test
Vaginal infections self test is a reliable, painless method to determine vaginal pH. As soon as the pH measurement area of the applicator comes into contact with vaginal secretions, its colour changes. The colour obtained corresponds to a pH value on the measuring scale and gives the test result. Regular use of the self-test for vaginal infections test is a reliable way to detect vaginal flora disorders.

An acid vaginal pH (between 3.8 and 4.4) is essential for the proper functioning of the vaginal protection system. Contamination by pathogenic germs and the occurrence of vaginal infections can therefore be effectively prevented. Many factors regulate the composition and functioning of the vaginal microbial ecosystem and preserve its natural protection function. Lactobacilli are one of the main factors. The most important and most natural protection against vaginal disorders is therefore a healthy vaginal flora.

*Perform the test twice a week recommended

Women during pregnancy are relatively susceptible to vaginitis, bacterial vaginosis is diagnosed in around 15% to 20% of pregnant women. By measuring their vaginal pH regularly, pregnant women can reduce the risk of infection.

Vaginal pH can increase in the event of,
- Bacterial vaginosis
- Sexually transmitted diseases
- Premature rupture of the amniotic sac (waters breaking)

Instructions
1. Wash your hands before starting the test
2. Open the box, take out a test and open the plastic pouch
3. Hold the applicator by the grip ring between the thumb and index finger. The thumb must always be on the side of the vaginal applicator
4. Avoid the pH measuring area coming into contact with other liquids
5. Sit down with the knees apart or stand with one foot on the toilet seat or another stable surface
6. With your free hand, gently free the opening of the vagina by spreading the external labia
7. Gently introduce the applicator into the vagina as if you were using a tampon up to about 1 to 3 cm deep (no further than the grip ring allows). Inserting the vaginal applicator is completely painless
8. Press the tube gently against the posterior wall of the vagina (on the side of the rectum) for about 10 seconds to ensure that the pH measuring area is well moistened. Sufficient moistening is very important for the test’s interpretation
9. Finally, carefully remove the applicator from the vagina