Vaginal culture; Female genital tract culture; Culture - cervix; Endocervical culture

During a vaginal examination, the health care provider takes a scraping of mucus and cells from the endocervix (the opening of the uterus). Smears are placed on slides or culture media (or both) depending on the suspected cause of infection.

The specimens are observed for growth and examined under a microscope. Special stains or other substances may be used to identify specific bacteria or other organisms.

To prepare for a vaginal examination:

• Empty your bladder (an empty bowel is also preferable).
• Take off your clothes from the waist down.
• Place your feet in the stirrups on the examination table.
• Cover your lower body with the drape or sheet provided.

You will feel some pressure from the speculum, an instrument inserted into the vagina to hold the area open so that the health care provider can look at the cervix and collect the specimen. There may be a slight cramping sensation when the swab touches the cervix.

The test may be performed to determine the cause of vaginitis, an unusual vaginal discharge, or other signs of infection. It is also used to screen for sexually transmitted diseases.

Organisms that are usually present in the vagina are there in the expected amounts.

Abnormal results indicate the presence of an infection in the female genital tract.

Culture can detect:

• C. trachomatis
• Chlamydia
• E. coli
• Gonorrhea
• Group A streptococcus
• Herpes simplex

Other conditions under which the test may be done:

• Chlamydia
• Chronic urethritis
• Gonococcemia (disseminated)
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

There are no risks.