Smear from the vagina

Almost every trip to the gynecologist is accompanied by taking a smear from the vagina for further study.

The indicators of a smear from the vagina

So, we will analyze the decoding of the smear from the vagina, and what changes the method can reveal. Normally, a swab of the vagina is represented by the following parameters:

1. Leukocytes. The increase in leukocytes in the smear from the vagina more than 10 cells in the field of vision indicates the presence of a bacterial infection. Their main function is protection from foreign microorganisms. Therefore, these cells appear in the focus of infection.
2. Epithelial cells. Depending on the period of the menstrual cycle, the amount may vary. Normally, up to 10 epithelial cells should be detected in the field of vision. A complete absence of epithelium can be a sign of atrophic changes in the vagina.
3. The presence of mucus is not a sign of the disease. Since it should be normal in moderate amounts.
4. "Key" cells are a complex of an epithelial cell with adherent gardnerella. The increase is observed with bacterial vaginosis.
5. Investigation of a smear from the vagina to the flora allows you to identify some microorganisms. For example, gonococci, trichomonads, yeast fungi.

Determination of the purity of the vagina

It is known that the smear from the vagina shows the composition of the microflora. The vagina is dominated by lactobacillus sticks, in less abundant conditionally pathogenic streptococci, staphylococci, enterococci. If this ratio is violated, dysbiosis of the vagina develops.

It is on the quantitative changes in the bacterial composition of the vaginal microflora that its purity is determined. According to this, 4 degrees are revealed:

1. Many lactobacilli, leukocytes within the norm.
2. There is a slight increase in leukocytes, the number of opportunistic bacteria and yeast flora. In this case, lactobacilli still prevail. At this stage, as a rule, subjective sensations in the form of abundant secretions, there is no pruritus. Such a result of a smear on the degree of purity of the vagina is most common among women without the presence of diseases of the sexual organs that lead sexual activity.
3. The microbial flora grows considerably, the number of lactobacilli decreases.
4. Lactobacilli are practically absent, white blood cells are on the whole field of view.

It is worth remembering that the process of taking a smear from the vagina is best done at the beginning of the menstrual cycle. Before this procedure, you can not use various vaginal suppositories, creams, lubricants. On the eve of all hygienic measures should be done without using soap.