Gardnerella Vaginalis: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment

What Are Symptoms of Gardnerella Vaginalis?

When Gardnerella vaginalis becomes dominant in the vaginal flora, bacterial vaginosis may develop, producing characteristic symptoms that are often distinct but not always noticeable.

What Are the Risks of Untreated Gardnerella Vaginalis?

Untreated bacterial vaginosis related to Gardnerella vaginalis can lead to several reproductive and systemic complications.

Possible risks include:

• Increased susceptibility to STIs – An imbalanced vaginal environment can weaken natural defences, allowing viruses and other bacteria to infect more easily.
• Pregnancy-related problems – BV during pregnancy has been associated with preterm birth and low birth weight.
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) – Bacteria may travel upwards into the uterus or fallopian tubes, potentially leading to chronic inflammation and infertility.
• Post-surgical infections – Medical procedures such as IUD insertion or gynaecological surgery can carry greater risk if the vaginal flora is unbalanced.

How Is Gardnerella Vaginalis Diagnosed?

Diagnosing Gardnerella vaginalis focuses on identifying bacterial vaginosis and confirming that the bacteria present in large numbers. A vaginal swab is typically taken to assess bacterial composition.

How Is Gardnerella Vaginalis Infection Treated?

Treating Gardnerella vaginalis aims to re-establish the healthy bacterial balance of the vagina and eliminate overgrowth.

Antibiotic therapy remains the standard approach, most often using metronidazole or clindamycin, which can be taken orally or applied intravaginally depending on clinical assessment.

For recurrent or persistent cases, probiotics may help support the regrowth of beneficial bacteria and reduce recurrence rates. Reviewing hygiene habits, sexual practices, and medication use can also help identify triggers and lower future risk. Follow-up visits are also recommended if symptoms persist or reappear after treatment completion.

Cost of Gardnerella Vaginalis Testing & Treatment

Testing and treatment for bacterial vaginosis linked to Gardnerella vaginalis are available at Singapore Women's Clinic, with the prices as follows:

Test / Treatment	Price*
Consultation	From $49.05
DNA Probe/Multiplex Real Time PCR for Vaginitis – Swab Gardnerella vaginalis, Candida albicans and Trichomonas vaginalis**	$147.15
STD Screening Packages
Basic Female Genital Screen (5 tests) – Swab Chlamydia PCR, Gonorrhoea PCR, Candida, Gardnerella Vaginosis, Trichomonas	$268
Enhanced Female Genital Screen (9 tests) – Swab Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Mycoplasma genitalium, Mycoplasma hominis, Trichomonas, Ureaplasma parvum, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Candida, Gardnerella Vaginosis	$348
Complete Female STD Screen (15 tests) – Blood Test + Swab HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2, Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Mycoplasma genitalium, Mycoplasma hominis, Trichomonas, Ureaplasma parvum, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Candida, Gardnerella Vaginosis	$478
Treatment
Oral Antibiotics	From $0.87 per tab
Intravaginal Antibiotics	$59.95 per box

*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.

We also offer a wide range of STD testing options and women's health services. Female doctors are available upon request for added comfort and privacy during consultations.

For appointment scheduling or further details, please contact our clinic directly.

How Can Gardnerella Vaginalis Infection Be Prevented?

Preserving a balanced vaginal microbiome is key to preventing Gardnerella overgrowth. Practical steps include:

• Avoid vaginal douching, as it disrupts natural bacterial defences.
• Use condoms consistently during sexual activity to maintain bacterial balance.
• Complete any antibiotic course exactly as prescribed to minimise disruption of healthy flora.
• Choose breathable cotton undergarment and avoid prolonged dampness in the genital area.

Simple lifestyle measures combined with timely screening can help maintain vaginal health and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.