References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
Vaginitis is inflammation of the vagina that can be caused by several different infections — including bacterial vaginosis, yeast (thrush) and trichomoniasis. A lab-based vaginitis test identifies which organism is responsible so you get the right treatment. Many sexual health clinics and home test kits offer combined vaginitis panels.
Here’s what to know.
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Common Causes of Vaginitis
| Cause | Type | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Bacterial vaginosis (BV) | Bacterial imbalance | Metronidazole or clindamycin |
| Vaginal thrush | Yeast (Candida) | Antifungal cream or tablet |
| Trichomoniasis | Parasite (STI) | Metronidazole |
| Atrophic vaginitis | Hormonal (menopause) | Topical oestrogen, moisturisers |
| Allergic / irritant | Reaction to soaps, products | Avoid irritant; topical steroids |
How the Test Works
- Self-collected or clinician-collected vaginal swab
- Lab analysis using microscopy, NAAT or culture
- Identifies multiple causes from one sample
- Results delivered within a few days
What Symptoms Prompt Testing
- Unusual discharge (colour, smell, amount)
- Itching, burning or soreness
- Pain during sex
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
- Recurring or persistent symptoms
What Each Result Means
BV positive
Treatment with metronidazole (oral or vaginal). Avoid douching and scented products.
Yeast positive
Antifungal cream, pessary or tablet. Available from pharmacies for mild cases.
Trichomoniasis positive
Metronidazole treatment for you and your partner.
All negative
Look for other causes — irritation, hormonal changes, dermatitis.
Self-Care During Investigation
- Avoid douching
- Use plain water for washing
- Avoid scented products and feminine washes
- Wear cotton underwear
- Don’t self-treat with random products
Where to Get Tested
- NHS sexual health clinic
- GP surgery
- Home test kits with vaginitis panels
- Private clinics
When to Seek Help Urgently
- Severe pain
- Fever
- Bleeding
- Symptoms during pregnancy
- No improvement after self-treatment
Read more: Vaginal infections | BV and HIV | Thrush
Frequently Asked Questions
Can vaginitis tests be done at home?
Yes — several home kits offer combined vaginitis testing.
Is vaginitis always an STI?
No. BV and thrush are not STIs. Trichomoniasis is.
Will my partner need treatment?
Depends on the cause. STI causes (trichomoniasis) yes; BV and thrush usually no.
Related reading
- Can You Test for STIs While on Your Period?
- Blood Test for Syphilis, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C
- Can You Have Chlamydia and Test Negative?
- Does a Vaginal Yeast Infection Smell?
- Hepatitis B Core Antibody Test Explained
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
