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There are two tests commonly used for bacteria vaginosis diagnosis and both the tests accurately diagnose the condition. Below is given a brief account of the tests:

Amsel Criteria – In the first test, diagnosis is made on the basis of four conditions. For the clinical sample to be qualified as bacteria vaginosis sample, it has to correspond with three or more conditions. The conditions are –

-       Increased vaginal pH levels

-       Vaginal fluid emits fishy smell when mixed with 10% of potassium hydroxide solution

-       Homogenous vaginal discharge

-       More than 20% presence of epithelial cells (clue cells) on wet mount

Earlier the Amsel criteria used to be the sole consideration on which bacterial vaginosis presence was confirmed but the test has some difficulties also. For instance, increased vaginal pH levels can be due to lower genital tract conditions, the hydrogen peroxide conclusion depends solely on the clinician or whether the fluid sample has more than 20% epithelial cells or not depends entirely on the judgment and skill of microscopist, which can be flawed at times.

These considerations led to:

Gram Stain Test – This test of identifying bacteria vaginosis shows more effectiveness than Amsel criteria. This has more specificity and sensitivity, resulting to almost 89%. In this, a swab of vaginal fluid is collected, placed on glass slide, and Gram Stained. Analysis is based on the quantification of three morphotypes – lactobacillus, Gardnerella, and Mobiluncus. For better results, the woman is encouraged to generate her own vaginal fluid swab for testing.