Clinical Profile and Diagnostic Evaluation of Bacterial Vaginosis: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common cause of vaginal discharge among women of reproductive age and is associated with significant gynecological and obstetric complications. Accurate diagnosis using simple clinical methods is essential, particularly in resource-limited settings.

Objectives: To evaluate the clinical profile and diagnostic parameters of bacterial vaginosis using Amsel’s criteria among women attending a gynecology outpatient department.

Materials and Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 120 women aged 15–45 years attending the gynecology outpatient department. Clinical features, including type of vaginal discharge and symptomatology, were recorded. Diagnostic evaluation included vaginal pH measurement, amine (whiff) test, and wet mount microscopy for clue cells. Bacterial vaginosis was diagnosed using Amsel’s criteria. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results: The prevalence of bacterial vaginosis was 9.2%. The most common clinical presentation was watery grey vaginal discharge. Elevated vaginal pH (>4.5) was observed in all BV cases. Clue cells showed a strong association with BV and were the most reliable diagnostic indicator. The amine test demonstrated high specificity, with all positive cases confirming the diagnosis. A considerable proportion of cases were asymptomatic.

Conclusion: Amsel’s criteria provide a simple, reliable, and cost-effective method for diagnosing bacterial vaginosis in outpatient settings. Vaginal pH and clue cells are key diagnostic parameters. Routine screening is recommended for early detection, including in asymptomatic women.