Wet mount (gynecology)

A wet mount test is a simple microscopic examination technique where the sample is placed on a glass slide with a drop of liquid (usually saline) and examined under a microscope to observe living cells, microorganisms, and other elements in their natural state without staining. Commonly used in gynecology to diagnose vaginal infections by visually detecting pathogens such as yeast (Candida spp.), Trichomonas vaginalis (a motile protozoan parasite), and bacterial vaginosis indicators like “clue cells.”

Used evaluate abnormal vaginal discharge and differentiate between possible causes of infection: Motile trichomonads indicate trichomoniasis. Presence of budding yeast or pseudohyphae suggests Candida infection. Clue cells (vaginal epithelial cells coated with bacteria) are markers for bacterial vaginosis. Increased white blood cells indicate infection or inflammation. Beyond vaginal samples, wet mounts can be used for examining other types of specimens, such as urethral discharges for both males and females, different body fluids and urine or stool, to detect parasites or bacteria, which makes Wet mounts helpful in initial, point-of-care diagnosis to guide treatment decisions.

Vaginal swabs and discharges

Collected using a sterile swab, promot delivery to the lab, ideally the test shold be performed ideally within 15 minutes to observe motile organisms like Trichomonas before they die, or at least within 1 hour of sample collection. The test should not be performed during menstruation or during use of vaginal medications unless indicated by the treating physician.

Negative for yeast, Trichomonas vaginalis, or Clue cells. White blood cells, if present, would be low, indicating no active infection or inflammation