Genital Vaginal Wet Prep (Microscopic Examination of Vaginal and Genital Specimen)
This test examines a sample taken from your vagina or genital area under a microscope to check for abnormal cells, infections, or other conditions.
["A wet prep test helps identify potential infections or changes in vaginal health that may require treatment or further evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 6565-6
- Short code
- T vaginalis Genital Ql Wet Prep
- Synonyms
- T vaginalis Genital Ql Wet Prep
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- wet-preparation
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
A healthcare provider collects a sample from your vagina or genital area using a sterile swab. The sample is placed on a slide and examined under a microscope to look for cells, bacteria, yeast, or other microorganisms. This can help detect conditions like bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, or vaginal yeast infections, as well as identify abnormal cell changes that might indicate other issues.
Common Conditions Detected
This test can identify signs of infections such as trichomoniasis (a parasitic infection), bacterial vaginosis (an imbalance of vaginal bacteria), or candidiasis (a yeast infection). It may also reveal abnormal cells that could be linked to conditions like sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other gynecological concerns.
Preparation and Process
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may be asked to avoid douching, using vaginal products, or sexual activity for a few hours before the test. The sample is collected during a routine pelvic exam or by a swab during a visit to your healthcare provider.
When This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unusual discharge, itching, odor, or discomfort in the vaginal area. It can also be used as part of routine gynecological exams or to investigate unexplained vaginal changes.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Early detection of infections or abnormal cells through this test can guide appropriate treatment and prevent complications. For example, identifying trichomoniasis or yeast infections promptly can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of spreading infections to others. Abnormal cell findings may prompt further diagnostic testing to rule out conditions like STIs or precancerous changes.
Short name
Vaginal Swab Microscopy
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
What does it mean if I have abnormal cells or microorganisms in my vaginal sample?
Can I have sex or use vaginal products before the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy