How is a vaginal discharge examination performed?
Aug 01, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Before conducting a vaginal discharge examination, a secretion sample must be collected. Typically, a speculum is used to open the vagina, and secretions are then collected from the posterior fornix. A smear is prepared for routine vaginal discharge testing. Routine vaginal discharge testing can be divided into standard (low-power) microscopic examination and high-power microscopic examination. Standard routine vaginal discharge testing is primarily performed clinically prior to procedures such as intrauterine device (IUD) insertion or removal, painless uterine curettage, or induced abortion—i.e., in asymptomatic patients.
In daily life, many women diagnosed with gynecological conditions require a vaginal discharge examination. So, how is this examination performed?
How Is a Vaginal Discharge Examination Performed?
Prior to the examination, a sample of vaginal secretions must be collected. Typically, a speculum is used to gently open the vaginal canal, and secretions are then collected from the posterior vaginal fornix for preparation of a smear and routine vaginal discharge analysis. Routine vaginal discharge testing includes two main types: standard (low-power) microscopic examination and high-power microscopic examination. The standard examination is commonly performed before clinical procedures such as intrauterine device (IUD) insertion or removal, painless uterine curettage, or induced abortion—particularly when the patient is asymptomatic. In contrast, high-power microscopic examination is primarily indicated when patients present with subjective symptoms or discomfort. Additionally, for unmarried women, secretions may be collected using a sterile cotton swab at the vaginal introitus.
Normal vaginal discharge is typically white, thin, and mucoid—or resembling egg white—with no foul odor and minimal volume. A vaginal discharge examination can generally detect signs of vaginitis: for example, trichomoniasis presents with thin, frothy, white discharge; candidiasis (yeast infection) is associated with curd-like discharge; bacterial vaginosis often produces grayish, fishy-smelling discharge; purulent discharge may indicate other bacterial infections; blood-tinged discharge may suggest malignancy; watery discharge may occur in cervical or vaginal cancer; and the examination may also assess vaginal cleanliness grade.
In addition to vaginal discharge examination, diagnosing gynecological diseases usually requires a series of complementary tests to accurately determine the nature and severity of the condition. Only after thorough evaluation can an appropriate treatment plan be formulated. We hope this information has been helpful to you!
