2San Bacterial Vaginosis pH Self Test

2San Bacterial Vaginosis pH Self Test is an at-home vaginal pH swab that gives an immediate colour result. Raised pH can indicate BV, while normal pH points away from BV and towards causes like thrush. The panel is easy to use and helps you decide next steps with a clinician. 

How to use
Wash your hands. Open the sterile swab without touching the tip. Gently insert the swab about 5 cm, roughly the length of an AA battery, and hold for about 10 seconds so it soaks up vaginal fluid. Remove the test panel from the pouch. Wipe the swab across the pH test area at least five times to transfer enough sample. Read the colour while the pad is still wet, then compare it with the colour scale on the pouch and note the nearest value. Dispose of swab and panel.

What the results mean
A pH between 3.8 and 4.4 is within the usual range in women of childbearing age and makes BV less likely. A pH above 4.4 supports BV and may also occur with trichomonas or other conditions. Thrush typically shows a pH below 4.5. Always discuss symptoms and results with a healthcare professional, especially if you are pregnant.

Main materials and reagent
The kit contains a test panel with pH paper, a sterile polyester-tipped swab and the colour scale. The indicator on the pad is bromocresol green. Store sealed at 2–30 °C and use once only.

Side effects and cautions
Do not use during your period. Wait at least 72 hours after vaginal medicines or products, 48 hours after sex or douching, and 5 days after your period ends, as these can alter pH. Avoid urine contamination and do not wash the area just before sampling. Some menopausal women have naturally higher pH and can get an abnormal reading without infection. This is not a test for STIs. Do not start treatment until you have spoken to a clinician, and seek advice urgently if you have pelvic pain, fever, or symptoms that persist or worsen