General information:

Vaginal Smear (Vaginal Secretion Test)

Microbiological examination of vaginal secretions – modern diagnostics with MALDI‑TOF, BIOMIC, Vitek 2, microscopy and PCR testing

What is a microbiological examination of vaginal secretions

The microbiological examination of vaginal secretions is a key method for diagnosing vaginal infections. It allows the detection of bacterial, fungal, and other pathogens responsible for symptoms such as itching, burning, unpleasant odor, abnormal discharge, or discomfort.

For maximum accuracy, our laboratory combines microscopy, culture methods, MALDI‑TOF identification, automated antibiotic susceptibility testing, and molecular diagnostics.

Microscopic evaluation – rapid assessment of the vaginal flora

As part of the standard examination, we prepare a microscopic slide that allows:

• assessment of vaginal cleanliness

• detection of bacterial vaginosis

• diagnosis of aerobic vaginitis

• visualization of clue cells, leukocytes, fungi, and other elements

If needed, we can also evaluate a slide provided by a gynecologist, which supports treatment follow‑up and rapid diagnosis.

Microorganism identification with MALDI‑TOF

After isolating the pathogen, identification is performed using MALDI‑TOF mass spectrometry — the most advanced technology in microbiology, providing:

• extremely high accuracy

• results within minutes

• reliable identification of difficult‑to‑detect bacteria and fungi

Antibiotic susceptibility testing with BIOMIC or the automated Vitek 2 system

When antibiotic sensitivity testing is required, we use two of the most precise methods:

BIOMIC – digital reading of antibiograms

• automated measurement of inhibition zones

• elimination of subjective interpretation

• high reproducibility

Vitek 2 – fully automated system

• rapid determination of MIC values

• standardized testing conditions

• internationally recognized methodology

Recommendations for additional tests – based on microbiologist assessment

After reviewing the microscopic findings and culture results, the microbiologist may recommend additional tests, all of which are performed at SMDL Laborexpress 2000. This is especially important in cases of:

• recurrent infections

• mixed infections

• absence of a clearly defined pathogen

• suspicion of sexually transmitted pathogens

Possible additional tests include:

PCR for vaginal microbiome (Femoflor)

• evaluation of the balance between beneficial and pathogenic bacteria

• detection of hard‑to‑culture microorganisms

• precise diagnostics for chronic or recurrent symptoms

PCR for sexually transmitted pathogens

Recommended when there is suspicion of:

• Chlamydia trachomatis

• Mycoplasma genitalium

• Ureaplasma spp.

• Trichomonas vaginalis

• other STI pathogens

HPV testing

• detection of high‑risk HPV types

• assessment of risk for cervical changes

• recommended in cases of abnormal Pap smear or upon gynecologist’s advice

These tests provide exceptionally high diagnostic value and support the selection of the most appropriate treatment.

Sample Collection Instructions

• No vaginal douching or intimate gels for at least 48 hours before the test. These alter the natural vaginal flora and may affect the results.

• No sexual intercourse 24–48 hours before sample collection.

• Do not use vaginal medications (suppositories, creams, tablets) for at least 72 hours beforehand, unless otherwise instructed by a doctor.

• Do not perform the test during menstruation. The optimal time is 2–3 days after the end of the menstrual cycle.

• Intimate hygiene: only external washing with water is allowed on the day of the test.