Wet Mount Preparation for Trichomonas Vaginalis Test

Trichomonas vaginalis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). It is sometimes referred to as trichomonas or trichomoniasis. It is also popularly known as TV. This could spread from one person to another during sex, or through shared sex toys if you do not wash them or use a new condom each time they are used. It is caused by a tiny parasite which causes an infection, affecting the vagina and urethra in women and in the urethra in men. Symptoms rarely appear, showing only one month after coming into contact.

A swab test does not require any special preparation. However, it is advisable that the person informs the doctor or healthcare professional about any medication that they are taking. It is especially important to inform them about any birth control pills or other antibiotics taken to treat underlying medical conditions. This is to ensure that there are no discrepancies in the test. The person must be ready for a swap in their vagina, which might be uncomfortable. It is advisable that the person wears comfortable clothing which will easily facilitate this test.

Once this test results return as positive, the person will be started on treatment. As a precaution, it is always that the person’s sexual partner is also tested and treated. The treatment involves taking a course of strong antibiotics, either as a single dose or a longer course which can extend to up to a week. The person will be advised not to drink alcohol for the duration of the treatment and for 48 hours after, as the antibiotics administered react with alcohol and will make the person unwell. The treatment options will vary if the person is pregnant or breastfeeding.

With specific reference to women, the test type used is called vaginal wet mount, also known as vaginal smear. A doctor or healthcare professional will take the test in a test centre, clinic or hospital. The process will involve a swab used to collect vaginal discharge from the person’s vagina. A swab looks like a cotton bud, but is smaller and rounded. This is not painful but might be momentarily uncomfortable. This sample of vaginal discharge will then be placed on a glass slide and mixed with a salt solution. It is looked at under a microscope for the trichomonads.