Vaginal discharge examinations are generally carried out if the doctor indicates potential problems with the female organs, such as signs of inflammation, vaginal fungal infections or bacterial vaginosis. Apart from identifying health conditions that may occur in the feminine area, examining vaginal mucosal fluid is also useful for determining the fertile period.

For further information regarding the vaginal discharge test procedure, please see the following explanation!

Vaginal Discharge Test Procedure

A vaginal discharge test involves a series of steps similar to other women's health examinations, such as a pelvic examination and pap smear. The following is a description of the steps.

• The health worker will ask you to remove your underwear, including underwear, and replace it with a gown or sheet as a cover.
• After that, you will be asked to lie on your back on a bed or examination chair with your legs raised and supported by a support.
• The healthcare provider will insert a special instrument known as a speculum into your vagina, opening it slowly to gain access.
• Next, the officer will use cotton wool or a small stick to take a vaginal discharge sample.
• The vaginal discharge samples taken will be taken to the laboratory for analysis.

It is important to remember that before undergoing this test, avoid using tampons, feminine hygiene products such as feminine soap and vaginal douche, or having sex at least 24 hours beforehand. This is important because the use of these items can affect the condition of vaginal fluids and result in inaccurate test results.

Purpose of Carrying Out a Vaginal Discharge Test

Vaginal discharge examination is carried out with the main aim of assessing the possibility of venereal disease, such as vaginitis. In addition, this examination can provide relevant information regarding the following conditions:

• Bacterial Vaginosis,
• Trichomoniasis,
• Vulvovaginal Candidiasis,
• Atrophic Vaginitis,
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases (“STDs”(, or
• Vaginal Irritation (allergic contact dermatitis).

Apart from this purpose, vaginal discharge examination can also be used to monitor the menstrual cycle and determine the fertile period. This examination can help in managing pregnancy or planning a family planning program. In contrast to examining vaginal discharge to detect infection, recording the condition of vaginal fluids throughout the menstrual cycle can be done independently at home.

The method is to record every day the condition of vaginal fluids, including viscosity, color, aroma and quantity. This information can be presented to medical personnel for analysis to determine fertile times more accurately.

How to Read the Results

After the laboratory produces examination results regarding vaginal discharge, it is recommended to submit the results to the doctor for further assessment. The doctor can analyze the test results to understand the vaginal condition you are experiencing.

Color changes in vaginal discharge can be an indicator of specific medical conditions, such as:

1. Blood Red or Dark Brown

This color change usually occurs during or after menstruation. However, if this color change occurs outside this period, it could be an indication of an infection in the intimate organs.

2. Yellow to Green

This color change is generally normal and can be influenced by supplement intake or diet. However, if it is accompanied by symptoms of itching or an unusual odor, it is possible that this colored vaginal discharge could be a sign of a bacterial infection or exposure to a sexually transmitted disease.

3. Pink

A pink discoloration near the menstrual cycle is considered normal. However, if it occurs outside the cycle, this may indicate irritation or injury to the vagina.

4. Light to Dark Grey

This color change can be a serious indicator, indicating the possibility of a bacterial infection in the vagina. Usually, this discharge is accompanied by an unpleasant odor, irritation, a burning sensation, and redness of the vulva.

5. White and Thick

White vaginal discharge with a thick texture can be a sign of a yeast infection in the vagina. It is recommended to immediately consult a hospital or doctor to ensure your reproductive health. However, keep in mind that there are other conditions, such as the menstrual cycle, use of contraception, and sexual activity, which can also affect milky white and thick vaginal discharge.

Each person may receive a variety of diagnoses depending on the type of disease they are experiencing. Therefore, you should consult a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment appropriate to the condition you are experiencing.

References:

https://hellosehat.com/wanita/tes-kesehatan-wanita/tes-keputihan/

https://yankes.kemkes.go.id/view_artikel/2582/keputihan-normal-lt-keputihan-tidak-normal

https://www.halodoc.com/kesehatan/keputihan

https://www.alodokter.com/komunitas/topic/hasil-lab-dari-pemeriksaan-mikrobiologi-pewarnaan-gram