New Health Experts Q&A Women’s Health

What tests should be done if you have vaginitis?

Asked by:May

Asked on:Apr 02, 2026 09:12 AM

Answers:1 Views:376
  • Elizabeth Elizabeth

    Apr 02, 2026

    Vaginitis usually requires routine examination of leucorrhea, vaginal secretion culture, vaginal pH test, colposcopy and gynecological ultrasound examination.

    1. Routine examination of leucorrhea

    Routine examination of leucorrhea is the basic item for diagnosing vaginitis. By observing leukocytes, epithelial cells, clue cells and other indicators in secretions under a microscope, common types such as bacterial vaginosis and trichomonas vaginitis can be quickly identified. It is necessary to avoid the menstrual period during the examination, and avoid sexual intercourse and vaginal lavage 24 hours before sampling.

    2. Culture of vaginal secretions

    When routine examination cannot identify the pathogen, secretion culture is required. This method can specifically identify pathogenic microorganisms such as Candida and Gardnerella, which is particularly important for vaginitis that relapses or fails to be treated. It takes 3-5 working days for culture results, and topical medication should be suspended during this period.

    3. Vaginal pH value detection

    The normal vaginal pH value is 3.8-4.5. In bacterial vaginosis, the pH often exceeds 4.5, and in trichomonas vaginitis it can reach above 5.0. It is simple and quick to use special pH test paper to test, but you need to pay attention to avoid using vaginal lubricants or douches before testing to interfere with the results.

    4. Colposcopy

    For patients with cervical erosion and contact bleeding, colposcopy can visually observe vaginal and cervical mucosal lesions. If necessary, combined with an acetic acid test or iodine test, it can detect tiny lesions invisible to the naked eye and assist in identifying special conditions such as HPV infection.

    5. Gynecological ultrasound examination

    Transvaginal ultrasound can evaluate the status of pelvic organs and rule out complications such as endometrial polyps and hydrosalpinx. Transabdominal ultrasound can be used for young girls or those who have no history of sexual intercourse. Before the examination, it is necessary to hold back urine and fill the bladder to obtain clear images.

    After vaginitis is diagnosed, the vulva should be kept clean and dry, avoid wearing tight-fitting chemical fiber underwear, change pure cotton underwear every day and wash it with boiling water. Reduce the intake of spicy foods and supplement yogurt containing lactobacilli in an appropriate amount. Sexual intercourse is prohibited during treatment, and partners need to be checked simultaneously. If vulvar itching worsens, abnormal bleeding occurs, or the secretions have a distinct odor, the patient should be followed up in time to adjust the treatment plan.

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