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Yeast, Vaginal, Qualitative — Gram Stain

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A vaginal sample test that uses a Gram stain to check for yeast, which may be present with vulvovaginal candidiasis.

Quick summary

["This test checks a vaginal sample for yeast and is interpreted together with your symptoms and other findings."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
107526-6
Short code
Yeast Vag Ql Gram Stn
Synonyms
Yeast Vag Ql Gram Stn
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
gram-stain
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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 is this test?

This test examines a vaginal sample for yeast using a Gram stain. It can help evaluate vaginal discharge, itching, irritation, or soreness when a yeast infection is possible.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order it when symptoms suggest vulvovaginal candidiasis, especially when the cause of vaginal discharge is unclear. It can also be used to check for yeast during the evaluation of a persistent or recurrent vaginal infection.

How is the test performed?

A clinician collects a sample of vaginal discharge, or a specimen may be collected with a swab. The laboratory prepares the sample for Gram staining and examines it for yeast and other microscopic findings.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the instructions provided by your clinician. When possible, avoid douching or using vaginal products immediately before the sample is collected, and tell the clinician about recent vaginal treatments.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Vaginal Yeast Gram Stain

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I have a yeast infection?
It may indicate that yeast is present in the vaginal sample, but some people carry yeast without symptoms. Your clinician will interpret the result along with your symptoms and examination findings.
Can this test identify all causes of vaginal discharge?
No. A Gram stain focuses on yeast and other limited microscopic findings, so it may not detect every infection or cause of discharge. Other testing may be needed if symptoms persist or the cause remains uncertain.
Is this the same as a yeast culture?
No. A Gram stain provides a quick microscopic examination, while a culture allows yeast to grow so that it can be identified more specifically. Your clinician may order both or other tests when appropriate.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy