Definition Endocervical culture is designed to detect microorganisms, most often bacteria, within the endocervix, or the upper part of the cervix. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that extends into the vagina. Microorganisms may be a sign of either a cervical infection or of a sexually transmitted disease.
Who is a candidate for the test? A woman may need to undergo this test if her doctor suspects that she has any of the following conditions:
cervical inflammation or infection, called cervicitis
pain with intercourse, especially with deep penetration
bleeding or spotting after intercourse or exercise
pelvic pain
lower-back pain
pain with urination
fever
How is the test performed? A doctor takes an endocervical smear during a pelvic examination. First, the doctor places a speculum within the vagina. This instrument enlarges the opening of the vagina, which lets the doctor see the cervix and vagina. Then, the doctor places a dry, sterile swab within the small opening of the cervix that leads into the uterus. The swab may be left in place for several seconds to absorb cells. The swab is sent to a laboratory, where it is grown in special media that shows the presence of any abnormal sexually transmitted bacteria or viruses. It may take one to seven days for results.
What is involved in preparation for the test? Women should not douche for 24 hours before the test.
What do the test results mean? If a woman has gonorrhoea, the test will show dumbbell-shaped bacteria called gram-negative diplococci. chlamydia and genital herpes cultures are fairly specific. The doctor may need to do more tests to rule out other STDs. If human papilloma virus (HPV) is found, the woman may need a colposcopy. In this procedure, the doctor uses a well-lit microscope to magnify and examine the cervix and vagina for abnormal cells. If a woman has an infection, all of her sexual partners should be tested to see if they are also infected.
Author: Eva Martin, MD Reviewer: eknowhow Medical Review Panel Editor: Dr John Hearne Last Updated: 6/06/2005 Contributors Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request
