What is it

Gardnerella is often associated with Bacterial Vaginosis.  It is a very common cause of vaginal infection (vaginitis).  Bacterial Vaginosis is the result of bacterial overgrowth (making it different from thrush/ candida which is caused by a yeast).  There are many reasons which can cause this imbalance ranging from changing soap to a new sexual partner, using an IUD and not using a condom.

Did you know…

Gardnerella often has no symptoms can make you more likely to contract a second STI and lead to complications with your pregnancy. Click here to see the full article.


You are most likely to have no symptoms, but a water discharge with a change in colour, a “fishy” odour, itching and burning when urinating are all symptoms of gardnerella.


Gardnerella can be treated with a short course of antibiotics which can be prescribed to you following a consultation with your Better2Know Doctor.  You cnan take your results to your own Doctor, if you would prefer.

Adverse Consequences

If left untreated, the infection can make you more likely to become infected with other STDs including HIV, chlamydia and gonorrhoea, you are also likely to pass gardnerella and other infections onto a new partner.

Gardnerella can also cause some complications in pregnancy if not treated, and Pelvic Inflamatory Disease (PID).


You can be tested for gardnerella at any of our clinics by providing a urine sample.  The results are available the day after your sample is received in the laboratory.