Vaginitis test (wet mount)

Alternative names:

wet prep

Normal values:

There is no indication of an infection.

What abnormal results mean:

The most common infections are caused by one or a combination of three sources. A vaginal yeast infection (caused by Candida albicans) is a common cause; resulting in a white, cheesy discharge, severe itching, painful intercourse, and a rash or vaginal inflammation.

Trichomoniasis,an infection caused by a protozoan parasite, produce a yellowish, frothy, foul-smelling discharge. Sores can develop on the cervix. There may be pain on urination or intercourse.

The other common cause is a bacterium (gardnerella vaginalis or hemophilus vaginalis) which causes a heavy, white, fishy-smelling discharge. There may be a rash or painful intercourse, or odor after intercourse.

Different treatments are necessary for each type of infection.

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:

• atrophic vaginitis (associated with lack of estrogen)

Update Date: 02/09/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director, Utah Health Informatics and adam.com editorial