Nowadays, women are more comfortable talking about vaginal issues and are learning about vaginal microflora. Vaginal microflora is integral to vaginal health so if it is thrown off balance, the risk of developing infections increases. That’s where the VFA test comes in. But what is vaginal microflora and the VFA test?
What Is Vaginal Microflora
Vaginal microflora refers to the different strains of bacteria that are present in the vagina. The vagina is home to more than 30 strains of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ bacteria. The ‘good’ bacteria or lactobacilli generally predominate and protect the vagina from harmful microorganisms. However, there are times when the natural balance of bacteria is disrupted, resulting in an altered vaginal microflora pattern.
Irritation, itching, burning, odor, and urinary frequency or urgency are symptoms of an altered vaginal microflora pattern.
What Is The VFA Test
The Vaginal Fluid Analysis (VFA) test is an advanced diagnostic technique that is used to evaluate the constituents of the vaginal fluid. It identifies the characteristics and quantity of the microbes in the vagina and determines if an altered vaginal microflora pattern is present.
The VFA test was developed by board-certified gynecologist Dr. R. Stuart Fowler. Dr. Fowler was a Consultant in Gynecology at the Mayo Clinic for 22 years then subsequently founded Fowler GYN International (FGI) in 2013.
The VFA test provides details on vaginal constituents including 1) the maturation squamous cells, 2) the relative concentration of each types, 3) the concentration of wbc’s, 4) the predominate type of wbc’s, 5) the relative concentration of lactobacilli, 6) the quality of lactobacilli, 7) the relative concentration of non-lactobacilli, and 8) the presence of tease as pseudohyphae, blastospores or both. Knowing the type and concentration of the vaginal constituents allows the vaginal experts at FGI to create a customized treatment protocol for each patient, to restore balance to the microflora.
If you would like to learn more about microflora and the VFA test, contact Fowler GYN International at www.fowlergyninternational.com, or by calling (480) 420-4001. FGI is located in Phoenix, AZ.