A vaginal wet mount, also called a wet prep or vaginal smear test, is a test done to find the cause of vaginitis, an inflammation of the vagina. This is not the same as a Pap test, which is a regularly scheduled exam that looks for cancerous or precancerous cells in the cervix. But you could have a vaginal wet mount and a Pap smear at the same appointment.

EBO MD uses a vaginal smear test for a number of reasons. If a patient is reporting vaginal itching, odor, pain or unusual discharge, this test is recommended as it could be caused by vaginitis. Vaginitis causes inflammation of the vagina, which is often the result of infection or an imbalance of vaginal bacteria. Other causes of vaginitis include:

• Reduced estrogen levels after menopause
• Hormone fluctuations during and after pregnancy
• Contact irritants
• Some skin conditions including dermatitis
• Yeast infestation
• Bacterial vaginosis

This test is completed by your care provider. If there is obvious discharge, they may know what it is right away. During the test, you lie back with your feet above your hips, usually in stirrups. A smooth device called a speculum is put into your vagina to gently widen it. Your care provider will then use a thin cotton swab to collect cells from the vaginal wall. They’ll smear the cells on a small microscope slide and mix them with a saline solution to view properly under a microscope.

Diagnostic testing, such as a vaginal smear test, gathers information critical to correct diagnosis and the monitoring of conditions that can drastically affect your life. If we can do it in-house, your membership covers the cost. Any tests that must be sent out will receive the very best wholesale prices that we can negotiate for you.

Reach out today to learn more about EBO MD’s vaginal smear test and other in-office diagnostic testing.