The best in class gynecologist at Labiaplasty & Vaginal Surgery NYC offer vaginal infection testing via (saline and KOH testing). The testing is performed in a private and comfortable setting by experienced NYC board certified gynecologists focused on accurate diagnosis and personalized care. Early identification of vaginal infections allows for prompt treatment and relief of symptoms while helping maintain optimal vaginal health.
Saline and KOH preparation, commonly called a wet mount test, is a simple in-office microscopic evaluation used to diagnose common vaginal infections and causes of vaginal discomfort. This quick and minimally invasive test helps identify conditions such as bacterial vaginosis (BV), yeast infections, and trichomoniasis by examining vaginal discharge under a microscope.
What Is a Saline and KOH Preparation?
During the procedure, a small sample of vaginal discharge is collected using a gentle swab. The sample is then placed onto microscope slides mixed with:
- Saline solution to examine cells, bacteria, and organisms
- Potassium hydroxide (KOH) solution to help identify yeast and detect characteristic odors associated with bacterial vaginosis
The slides are carefully examined under a microscope to identify the cause of symptoms and determine the most appropriate treatment.
Conditions Commonly Diagnosed
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Bacterial vaginosis occurs when the normal balance of vaginal bacteria becomes disrupted. Symptoms may include:
- Thin gray or white discharge
- Vaginal odor or “fishy” smell
- Mild irritation or burning
Wet mount testing may reveal clue cells and other findings associated with BV.
Yeast Infection (Candidiasis)
Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of Candida fungus and may cause:
- Thick white discharge
- Vaginal itching or irritation
- Burning or redness
KOH preparation helps identify yeast cells and fungal elements under microscopic evaluation.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite. Symptoms may include:
- Frothy yellow-green discharge
- Vaginal irritation or discomfort
- Burning during urination
- Vaginal odor
Saline preparation may allow visualization of motile trichomonas organisms under the microscope.
- Benefits of Saline and KOH Preparation Testing
- Quick in-office diagnostic procedure
- Helps identify common vaginal infections accurately
- Minimally invasive and well tolerated
- Provides rapid results during the office visit in many cases
- Assists in diagnosing bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, and trichomoniasis
- Helps guide targeted treatment recommendations
- Reduces unnecessary medication use by improving diagnostic accuracy
- Supports faster symptom relief and recovery
- Helps identify causes of abnormal discharge, itching, irritation, or odor
- Can be performed during a routine gynecologic examination
- Personalized evaluation based on symptoms and vaginal health concerns
The procedure is simple and typically completed within minutes. During the exam:
- A speculum is gently inserted into the vagina
- A small sample of discharge is collected using a sterile swab
- The sample is placed on slides for microscopic analysis
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during sample collection.
Early diagnosis and treatment of vaginal infections can help prevent complications, reduce discomfort, and support long-term vaginal and reproductive health.
At our Upper East Side Manhattan gynecologist practice, we are committed to providing compassionate, confidential women’s healthcare with advanced diagnostic evaluations and personalized treatment plans.
Contact Labiaplasty & Vaginal Surgery NYC (Upper East Side) today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn more about vaginal infection testing and gynecologic wellness services.
Our experienced specialists and dedicated staff pride themselves on delivering highly personalized, attentive, and compassionate care before, during, and after every treatment. From your initial consultation through recovery and follow-up visits, we focus on creating a comfortable, confidential, and supportive experience tailored to each patient’s unique goals and needs.
Our philosophy of direct physician-to-patient care and individualized attention has helped make Labiaplasty & Vaginal Surgery NYC one of Manhattan’s most trusted destinations for intimate wellness, cosmetic gynecology, hormone optimization, regenerative medicine, and advanced women’s healthcare on the Upper East Side.
Labiaplasty & Vaginal Surgery NYC
784 Park Ave, Suite 1E
New York, NY 10021
646-475-74694
