Vaginitis test (wet mount)
Alternative names:
wet prep
Definition:
A test for vaginitis (an infection of the vagina that does not include the urinary tract); the symptoms may include itching, pain, vaginal odor, and a vaginal discharge.
How the test is performed:
You will be asked to lie on your back with your feet in the stirrups. A pelvic examination will be done, and a speculum (an instrument used to dilate the body passage in order to examine the interior) will be inserted into your vagina and opened slightly. A sterile, moist cotton swab in inserted and a sample of the discharge is taken. The swab is removed and then the speculum. Slides are prepared, one with a salt solution and one with a potassium hydroxide solution, then the slides are viewed under a microscope.
How to prepare for the test:
Do not douche for 24-hours before the test.
How the test will feel:
There may be a slight discomfort with the pelvic examination.
Why the test is performed:
The test looks for the cause of the vaginal irritation and discharge.
Update Date: 02/09/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director,
Utah Health Informatics and adam.com
editorial
|
