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Accuracy Of Self-Collected Vaginal Swabs In The Diagnosis Of Bacterial Vaginosis, Vaginal Candidiasis, And Trichomoniasis, Anna Chase

Thinking Matters Symposium Archive

Vaginitis is the most common gynecological problem seen in primary care. It is estimated to account for 10 million primary care visits each year. The most common causes of vaginitis - responsible for up to 90% of cases - are bacterial vaginosis (BV), vaginal candidiasis (“yeast infections”), and trichomoniasis. The purpose of this evidence-based project was to evaluate whether self-collected vaginal swabs are as accurate as those collected by a provider during a speculum exam in the diagnosis of BV, yeast infections, and trichomoniasis.

In order to appropriately diagnose and treat vaginitis, samples from a vaginal swab are often required. …