Genital microscopy, culture and sensitivities

This test detects and identifies bacteria from a culture of fluid, pus, or discharge from urinary and genital organs. It is used when a genital infection is suspected. A sample of urethral cells or discharge, endocervical cells, vaginal cells or discharge, or genital ulcer (open sore) discharge may be collected for this test.

Laboratory tests may be done for many reasons. Tests are performed for routine health screenings or if a disease or toxicity is suspected. Lab tests may be used to determine if a medical condition is improving or worsening. Lab tests may also be used to measure the success or failure of a medication or treatment plan. Lab tests may be ordered for professional or legal reasons. You may need this test if you have:

• Genital infection
• Premature labor

Urethral cells/discharge:

Before collection of urethral cells and/or urethral discharge for this test, you should not urinate during the hour prior to the test. This is because urine may minimize or clear your urethra (the tube that drains urine) of any organisms (germs), thus affecting the results of this test.

Endocervical cells:

Written consent will be required for endocervical sampling. Review the consent form with the healthcare worker and ask any questions that you have before signing the consent form.

Tell the healthcare worker if you have a medical condition or are using a medication or supplement that causes excessive bleeding. If possible, schedule the procedure one week after your menstrual period. Do not douche or have sexual intercourse for 24 hours before the procedure.

You may be asked to urinate prior to your endocervical sampling. This will make it easier for the healthcare worker to see your cervical canal during the procedure and may make the procedure more comfortable for you.

Vaginal cells/discharge:

Ask the healthcare worker for information about how to prepare for this test.

Genital ulcer discharge:

You will need to have your body in a position to allow the healthcare worker access to the wound.

A sample of urethral cells or discharge, endocervical cells, vaginal cells or discharge, or genital ulcer discharge may be collected for this test.

Urethral cells/discharge:

A urethral culture procedure is used to collect cells samples and/or urethral discharge. This test is usually done on males only. For this procedure, you will be asked to lie on your back. The tip of the penis will be cleaned. A special thin swab will be inserted into the urethra. The swab will gently be twisted side to side and then remain still for a few seconds before it is removed. This is to allow the swab to absorb enough fluid to be cultured. It may be possible to get a sample by “milking” the urethra for discharge. Ask the healthcare worker if this is an appropriate option.

Endocervical cells:

For an endocervical sampling, you will be asked to lie on your back with your legs spread and feet placed in stirrups. A speculum will be inserted into your vagina. This tool is used to gently spread apart your vagina. A small brush is inserted into the endocervical canal and rotated. This is done to collect cells. Once a sufficient sample is collected, the brush is removed. The sample off the brush is then sent for testing.

Vaginal cells/discharge:

A vaginal swab is done to collect a sample from the lower part of your vagina. You will be asked to lie on your back with your legs spread and feet placed on stirrups. A special kind of swab will be inserted into your lower vagina or just near the entrance of the vagina. The swab will be rotated gently and then remain still for a few seconds before it is removed. This is done make sure enough secretions have been collected for the test. The sample is then sent for testing.

Genital ulcer discharge:

An ulcer discharge sample may be made up of cells, tissue, or fluid. Before the procedure, the healthcare worker may rinse the area with saline. Then the healthcare worker will wipe a moistened sterile swab over the sore. Talk with your healthcare worker if you have questions or concerns about this test.

The amount of discomfort you feel will depend on many factors, including your sensitivity to pain. Communicate how you are feeling with the person doing the procedure. Inform the person doing the procedure if you feel that you cannot continue with the procedure.

Urethral cells/discharge:

A urethral culture generally takes less than a minute. However, you may feel discomfort when the swab moves in the urethra.

Endocervical cells:

You may feel mild discomfort, cramping, or pain during an endocervical sampling.

Vaginal cells/discharge:

During a vaginal swab, you may feel discomfort when the swab moves in your vagina.

Genital ulcer discharge:

The amount of discomfort you feel will depend on many factors, including your sensitivity to pain. Communicate how you are feeling with the person doing the procedure. Inform the person doing the procedure if you feel that you cannot continue with the procedure.

Urethral cells/discharge:

After a sample has been collected, avoid all sexual activities until you receive your results and speak to your healthcare worker.

Endocervical cells:

After endocervical sampling, you may experience some light spotting (mild, occasional bleeding from the vagina). Generally, there are no activity restrictions after this procedure.

Vaginal cells/discharge:

There are no special instructions to follow after this test.

Genital ulcer discharge:

After a sample has been collected, avoid all sexual activities until you receive your results and speak to your healthcare worker.

You have the right to help plan your care. To help with this plan, you must learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. You can then discuss treatment options with your caregivers. Work with them to decide what care may be used to treat you. You always have the right to refuse treatment.