Aids in the diagnosis of infectious vaginitis caused by bacterial vaginosis bacteria (40-50%), yeast (20-25%), and Trichomonas vaginalis (15-20%), although the sensitivity is only 50-75%. 

Female or male external discharge

Aerobic bacterial culture collection & transport swab (BBL)

Male urethral

ESwab mini-tip collection kit (green)

Vaginal

• Use speculum without lubricant
• Swab mucosa high in vaginal canal with swab

Urethral

• If profuse discharge, collect externally
• If not, insert minitip swab 2 cm into urethra and rotate gently before withdrawing

Aerobic bacterial culture collection & transport swab (BBL) or

ESwab mini-tip collection kit (green)

Other bacterial culture swab, or

Swab in Saline (sterile) vial/tube

Other bacterial culture swab or

Swab in Saline (sterile) vial/tube

Transport as soon as possible as Trichomonas dies quickly after collection.

Ambient (strict) - 24 hours

• Improper label (unlabeled or mislabeled)
• Time delay between time of collection and receipt of specimen
• Inappropriate timing of collection
• Improper transport container
• Improper transport temperature
• Interfering substances
• Inappropriate specimen type
• Leaking container
• Dry swab
•  

Microscopic examination

None seen

Vaginal discharge is one of the most common women’s healthcare problem. 90% of infectious vaginitis is caused by bacterial vaginosis bacteria (40-50%), yeast (20-25%), and Trichomonas vaginalis (15-20%). Mixed infections are found in up to 25% of patients with infectious vaginitis.