What does it mean if the leukocyte test result is one plus in a vaginal discharge examination?

In a routine vaginal discharge examination, if the white blood cell count is reported as "+" or "1+", it typically indicates a mild increase in the number of white blood cells observed under the microscope. White blood cells are part of the body's immune system and are involved in fighting infections. In the female reproductive tract, normal vaginal secretions also contain a certain number of white blood cells. A result of one plus sign may suggest a mild vaginal inflammatory response, which could be caused by bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infection, or by changes in vaginal pH. However, this single finding alone is insufficient to diagnose a specific disease and should be interpreted in combination with other test results, such as clue cells, trichomonas, candida, and vaginal pH. If symptoms such as odor, itching, burning, or discomfort are present, medical evaluation is recommended, and the physician may recommend treatment with antibiotics or antifungal medications depending on the clinical situation.