Amsel criteria

The Amsel criteria are a set of guidelines used by healthcare professionals to diagnose bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common vaginal infection. These criteria include the presence of a thin, gray vaginal discharge, a fishy odor, vaginal pH over 4.5, and the observation of specific cells (clue cells) under a microscope. If three of these four criteria are met, a diagnosis of BV is likely. This helps distinguish BV from other vaginal infections and ensures appropriate treatment. Understanding these criteria aids in recognizing and managing symptoms effectively.