Understanding Lab Tests for Vaginitis
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Vaginitis is inflammation of the vagina that can cause discharge, itching, and pain. While symptoms may suggest vaginitis, identifying the specific underlying cause requires targeted laboratory testing to ensure appropriate treatment.
Recommended Test
Trichomonas vaginalis RNA, Qualitative, TMA (Female)
This highly sensitive molecular test detects Trichomonas vaginalis RNA, identifying one of the most common parasitic causes of vaginitis. The test uses transcription-mediated amplification (TMA) technology to provide accurate results, helping confirm if this specific pathogen is responsible for vaginal inflammation and symptoms.
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Why Lab Testing is Essential for Vaginitis
Vaginitis can be caused by various factors including bacterial infections, yeast overgrowth, or parasitic infections. Since symptoms often overlap between different causes, accurate diagnosis through lab testing is crucial for selecting the most effective treatment approach.
Common Infectious Causes of Vaginitis
Trichomonas vaginalis is a parasitic infection and one of the most common sexually transmitted causes of vaginitis. This infection requires specific testing for accurate detection and appropriate antibiotic treatment.
Understanding Your Results
A positive result indicates the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis, confirming this as the cause of vaginitis symptoms. A negative result means this particular pathogen was not detected, though other causes of vaginitis may still be present and require additional testing or evaluation.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. Additional testing may be needed to rule out other causes of vaginitis if initial tests are negative.
