Because there is significant variation and overlap in the appearance of dif- ferent etiologies of vaginitis, objective testing should always be undertaken. Any symptomatic, colored, or foul-smelling discharge should be sampled from the lateral vaginal wall for microscopic examination. Such specimens usually are obtained before other testing to decrease the presence of red blood cells. Secretions are mixed with a small amount of normal saline either in a test tube or on a slide with a protective cover slip to prevent air-drying. The saline wet mount is examined under the microscope for trichomonas, excess leukocytes, and “clue cells.” .
