Why do leukocytes increase in gynecological smears and what is considered normal. Detailed explanation of smear analysis for flora in women

A smear (bacterioscopy) is a type of analysis in which the composition of secretions from the mucous membranes of the vagina, cervix and urethra is studied. Taking a smear is a quick and painless procedure. The resulting secretions are examined for the presence of leukocytes in the laboratory using a microscope.

A detailed description of the norms for smear results in women can be found in a special table. Depending on the day of the menstrual cycle, age and health status of the woman, the normal indicators will differ.

Only a gynecologist or urologist can refer you for analysis.

The main reasons for taking a smear are:

vaginal discharge with an atypical color, smell and consistency;
burning, stinging and itching in the vagina;
painful sensations when urinating;
irritation and redness of the skin on the genitals;
taking antibiotics for 10 days or longer;
pregnancy planning;
suspicion of sexually transmitted infection.

Women who have regular sex life are recommended to undergo preventive tests once a year. The vaginal microflora is an ideal environment for the development of inflammatory processes, and regular examination will help to detect and promptly treat the disease if it appears.

Preparing for analysis

Collecting discharge is similar to a routine examination by a gynecologist. For this you need a spatula and a gynecological speculum. A spatula is a thin plastic stick, one end of which is slightly widened. The doctor inserts it into the vagina and runs the tip of the spatula along the cervix with a gentle sweeping motion. He applies the secretions taken in this way onto a special piece of glass.

From the vagina, discharge is collected on a gauze swab, and a smear from the urethra is taken using a bacteriological loop. Women can find out whether the number of leukocytes in a smear is normal using a special results table, posted on the Internet, or ask your gynecologist. To get correct results, you need to prepare for the tests.

A smear test is not taken during menstruation. It is advisable to take tests 2-3 days before or after the end of your period, and not in the middle of the cycle. This will allow you to get more accurate results.

You also cannot:

have sexual intercourse 2 days before the test;
use suppositories, lubricant and cream 1 day before the test;
douche 1 day before the test;
wash yourself before using with detergents;
visit the toilet 3 hours before the test.

What tests can detect an elevated white blood cell count?

3 types of analysis can detect an increased number of leukocytes.

On the composition of microflora

If a genitourinary infection is suspected, the gynecologist prescribes an analysis of the composition of the microflora. It includes epithelial cells and opportunistic bacteria - pathogens. Normally, bacteria are absent or present in an amount of 1-2 units.

For the degree of purity

Vaginal cleanliness is a relative concept.

Depending on the quantity and composition of microflora, there are 4 degrees of purity:

Complete absence of pathogenic flora and leukocytes;
Normal number of leukocytes and insignificant presence of microflora;
The level of leukocytes is elevated, pathogenic bacteria are present, repeated tests are required to clarify the diagnosis;
All indicators are elevated, bifidobacteria that can normalize the condition of the vagina are absent, the patient requires emergency treatment.

Oncocytology

Oncocytological examination allows early detection of precancerous cells in the epithelium of the cervix and vagina. Doctors strongly recommend that all women, upon reaching 18 years of age, regardless of their health status and lifestyle, undergo an oncocytology test once a year.

Decoding the analysis results

Tests can detect bacteria and leukocytes in a smear. The norm in women (the table of normal indicators is given below) varies depending on the place where the analysis was taken, age and sexual activity.

When receiving test results to check the norm of leukocytes in a smear in women, it is important to familiarize yourself with the table of normal indicators.

The following may be found in the discharge:

Lactobacilli. Their presence in the vagina is normal. A small number of lactobacilli is a symptom of bacterial vaginosis;
Gonococci. Normally absent, they cause gonorrhea;
Cocchi. Can be gram-positive and gram-negative; gram-positive: staphylococcus, streptococcus and enterococcus should be present in the vagina, but their increased number indicates calpitis;
Yeast. They are constantly present in the vagina in small quantities; the rate increases with the development of candidiasis;
"Key" cells. They are formed as a result of the connection of squamous epithelial cells and gardnerella, their presence means the development of gardnerellosis or vaginosis;
Leptothrix. The bacterium that causes candidiasis is normally absent;
Trichomonas. Normally absent, causes chlamydia;
Escherichia coli. The presence in a single number is acceptable; the accumulation of E. coli bacteria often indicates neglect of personal hygiene;
Flat epithelium. Low values indicate atrophy of the epithelial layer, high values indicate the presence of inflammation.

The norm of leukocytes in a smear in women

Ideally, there should be no leukocytes, but such indicators are extremely rare. Even girls who are not sexually active can have viruses and bacteria in their smear.

Table

The table shows the norms for the diagnostic results of leukocytes.

Diagnostic criterion	Normal indicators
Diagnostic criterion	Vagina (V)	Cervix (C)	Urethra (U)
White blood cell count	0-10	0-15	0-5
White blood cell count after 50 years	0-12	0-20	0-7

Normal before menstruation

In healthy women, the number of white blood cells does not increase before menstruation. Only 1% of patients are characterized by an increase in leukocyte levels by 2-3 units. During menopause, the rate within normal limits can increase to 20 units.

Normal after menstruation

Normally, the number of leukocytes in a smear in women should not change significantly after menstruation. A table with normal indicators is an open source of information; you can find it on the Internet and compare the results. Significant an increase in the level of leukocytes may be associated with non-compliance with personal hygiene rules.

If a girl washes herself irregularly and uses low-quality tampons, bacteria will actively multiply in the vagina and cause inflammation.

Normal during pregnancy

During pregnancy, a woman's immune system is under great strain, and an increase in the level of leukocytes to 20 units is considered normal. If the indicators are higher, it is necessary to urgently undergo treatment. Any inflammation in the body is dangerous for a child, and diseases of the reproductive system are especially dangerous.

Normal after childbirth

During childbirth, a woman loses a lot of blood. This is a serious shake-up for the body, for which it prepares in advance. In the days before birth, white blood cells accumulate in the uterine area and An elevated level of white blood cells within 4-5 days after birth is normal. If after 5 days the leukocyte level has not decreased, this indicates the presence of postpartum complications.

Causes of increased leukocytes

An increased level of leukocytes is observed in various diseases of the genitourinary system, some of which require drug treatment or surgical intervention. The slightest manifestation of characteristic symptoms is a reason to consult a gynecologist.

Urogenital infection

Urogenital infections are called cystitis and urethritis - inflammation of the walls of the bladder and urethra. They are manifested by frequent urges, sharp pain when urinating, and fever. The causes of the disease are hypothermia and neglect of hygiene rules.

About 80% of women suffer from cystitis at least once in their lives; without proper treatment, it becomes chronic and can cause more serious diseases.

Thrush

Vaginal candidiasis or thrush is a disease in which vaginal discharge acquires a specific structure - it becomes compacted, similar to cottage cheese. They have an unpleasant sour smell. If the discharge is not washed off from the external genitalia in time, it causes itching and redness.

Candida fungi are always present in the vaginal microflora. Candidiasis develops when the number of Candida fungi increases by 3-4 times. A smear for leukocytes will allow you not only to see the causative agent of the fungus, but also to determine its type and reaction to medications.

Allergic vulvitis

In allergic vulvitis, inflammation occurs as a result of the action of an allergen. Most often, they are caused by poor-quality linen and unsuitable hygiene products.

Vulvitis can be hidden, but its active manifestations include:

redness and swelling;
pain;
rash;
purulent discharge.

Allergic vulvitis is primarily a disease of the external genital organs. But without proper treatment, the inflammation can spread to the vagina. To find out whether vulvitis has provoked internal inflammation, an analysis is performed to determine the number of leukocytes.

Trichomoniasis

The causative agent of trichomoniasis is Trichomonas vaginalis. This is a viral disease that most often develops in parallel with other infections: gonorrhea and chlamydia. Trichomoniasis is transmitted sexually, the risk of infection through unprotected contact exceeds 80%.

The disease is manifested by pain and redness of the genital organs. Atypical discharge often appears: foamy, green or yellow. Trichomoniasis disrupts the composition of the vaginal microflora, which leads to inflammation and an increase in the number of leukocytes by 2-5 times.

Hidden infections

Normal levels of leukocytes can be easily found on the Internet using the appropriate query in the form of a table. In women, hidden infections can increase the rate of leukocytes in a smear tenfold, so it is important to know these standards and be able to independently decipher the results. This will allow the patient to take a more competent approach to treatment and follow the doctor’s recommendations.

Hidden infections are asymptomatic and a smear is the only way to identify them. With its help, the type of infectious agent and its quantity in the microflora are determined. Sometimes the disease is caused by pathogens of different types, and the treatment process requires a combination of several drugs.

Vaginitis

Vaginitis is a disease in which the vaginal mucosa is negatively affected and reacts to it with inflammation. It can be caused by hormonal imbalances, taking antibiotics that affect the composition of the vaginal microflora, or infection with a virus from a partner. With vaginitis, symptoms appear chaotically, and often women do not pay attention to them.

Like any inflammation, vaginitis is dangerous due to complications. A smear will help to accurately determine the presence of infection and the specific pathogen.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea most often affects young women between the ages of 20 and 35. This is an infectious disease transmitted through sexual contact. Infection is possible even through oral sex, since gonorrhea affects all mucous membranes of the body.

The first symptoms of gonorrhea are pain in the lower abdomen and yellowish vaginal discharge. But recent data shows that More and more women are experiencing asymptomatic gonorrhea. It affects internal organs and can cause infertility. In this case, only a general smear and further tests to clarify the diagnosis can detect gonorrhea.

Erosion

According to statistics, erosion occurs in more than 50% of women. This is a small red area on the cervix that appears as a result of hormonal imbalance. To diagnose erosion, you will need not only to take a smear for leukocytes, but also to undergo video colposcopy - a study using a miniature camera. Erosion can be successfully treated, but without treatment it can develop into cancer.

Herpes

The herpes virus is ubiquitous and affects about 90% of people. But most of them are carriers - they do not get sick themselves, but transmit the virus to their sexual partners. The herpes virus is transmitted not only through sexual contact, but also through kissing, using shared personal hygiene products and utensils.

Herpes manifests itself as a rash and redness: Small blisters filled with fluid appear on the external genitalia. With herpes, the level of leukocytes decreases, and this can be revealed by a general blood test. A smear for leukocytes must be taken to clarify the diagnosis.

Oncology

The main symptom of cancer is pain and bloody discharge from the vagina. But they are also a symptom of many other diseases, and a smear is necessary to make a correct diagnosis.

Drug treatment

Most women without chronic diseases can quickly achieve the norm of leukocytes in a smear indicated in the table. A course of antibiotics can cure almost any genitourinary infection. Only in particularly difficult cases does long-term treatment, consisting of several courses, be required.

To treat elevated white blood cell levels, use:

Antiseptics. They are used to disinfect the vagina and external genitalia. The solution is injected into the vagina and washed. Popular antiseptics: Miramistin and Chlorhexidine;
Antibiotics. They are prescribed to suppress pathogenic microflora. But, since the antibiotic also destroys beneficial microflora, it should be used carefully and in short courses. These antibiotics include: Furagin, Palin, Azithromycin;
Aminoglycosides(antibiotics prescribed only in hospital settings). These are enhanced action antibiotics. They can only be used under the constant supervision of specialists, since they have a long list of contraindications and can cause severe allergic reactions;
Immunomodulators. They are used as an adjuvant to improve the performance of antibiotics. Universal immunomodulator – “Vitaferon”. It does not cause allergic reactions and promotes the rapid restoration of beneficial microorganisms;
Preparations for the prevention of dysbacteriosis. These are immune-supporting drugs that prevent antibiotics from changing the composition of the vaginal microflora too much. Most often, experts recommend Laktovit.

Traditional medicine

Traditional methods of treatment cannot be a complete replacement for medications, but are often used as an adjuvant.

A decrease in the level of leukocytes is facilitated by:

Douching. To douche, you will need a tampon: a sterile bandage rolled into a tight roll. Using a tampon, the treatment solution is injected into the vagina. You can use a decoction of chamomile or calendula as a solution. Pour 200 ml of boiling water over a tablespoon of finely chopped dry herb, cover with a lid and leave until it cools completely. Strain the finished broth. Before inserting into the vagina, it is advisable to warm the broth to a comfortable warm temperature in order to avoid unpleasant sensations;
Baths. A medicinal bath is useful as a disease prevention, and during the treatment process it is used as a stimulant. To prepare a bath you will need 20 g of dry laurel leaves. They need to be poured with a glass of boiling water, strained and the broth diluted in 10 liters of water. The water will cool down quickly, but you cannot top it up. This will disrupt the concentration of the decoction, so this bath should be taken no longer than 10 minutes;
Decoctions for oral administration. A woman can obtain the normal level of leukocytes in a smear corresponding to the one indicated in the table using herbal decoctions. A decoction of St. John's wort has proven itself well. Pour boiling water over 1 teaspoon of dry herb and leave covered for 15 minutes. The prepared decoction is taken 3 times a day. The duration of the course of treatment is 10 days, if necessary repeated after a break of 1 week.

Many diseases of the female genital organs are asymptomatic, and regular testing for leukocyte levels is the only way to detect them at an early stage. Gynecologists recommend undergoing a full examination at least once a year, and in the presence of chronic diseases - 2 times a year.

Video on the topic: the norm of leukocytes in a smear in women

The norm of leukocytes in a smear in women according to the generally accepted table:

Rules for taking and interpreting smear analysis in women:

Leukocytes in the female body perform a protective function. Their presence indicates that local immunity is normal. But sometimes tests reveal an increased or decreased number of leukocytes. This clearly indicates the presence of certain diseases, which can be identified through a more thorough examination. To ensure that the situation does not get out of control and serious illnesses do not progress to late stages, it is necessary to constantly visit a gynecologist for preventive purposes.

Normal white blood cell count

If a woman is tested for leukocytes in a smear, the norm is no more than 15 units. However, the indicators of different areas differ slightly. So, for the urethra the number 5 is considered normal, for the vagina - 10, and for the cervix - 15. If the examination shows that there are deviations in one direction or another, the cause must be urgently found.

This is especially important for pregnant women. The fact is that as a result of hormonal changes and the body’s transition to a new position, their genital microflora is often disrupted and hitherto hidden diseases can develop. It is for these reasons that leukocytes are periodically tested during pregnancy. In this case, the norm is 10 - 20 units.

Leukocytes in the smear: exceeding the norm may indicate an inflammatory process

Deviations from the norm

Leukocytes in a smear, the norm of which is no more than 15 units, in the presence of acute forms of inflammatory processes can reach 100. In this case, it is necessary to undergo additional examination and begin treatment as soon as possible. Leukocytes are cells responsible for immunity. They are the ones who fight infections. The stronger the disorder, the more white blood cells appear - this is how the body resists the disease. On the one hand, this indicates the presence of health problems, and on the other, it indicates that the immune system is coping with its function. With the help of medications you can speed up recovery. It is much worse if leukocytes are completely absent or present in very small quantities. This clearly indicates a weakening of local immunity. Consequently, if a disease occurs, the body will be defenseless.

Increased content of leukocytes in the smear

White blood cells in a smear, the norm of which is significantly exceeded, may indicate the presence of one of the following diseases:

oncological diseases of the urinary tract and genital organs;
inflammatory processes in the vagina and cervix (colpitis, celvicitis, endometritis, andexitis, etc.);
violation of the microflora of the vagina and intestines.

As you can see, an increase in the number of leukocytes is only a consequence of more serious disorders that should be eliminated. To make this possible, you must first make a correct diagnosis. To do this, various tests may be performed, including PCR (polymerase chain reaction), culture and a special blood test. As a result, the causative agent of the disease is identified, and effective treatment becomes possible.

An increase in the leukocyte count may be felt by a woman, or may be asymptomatic. You should immediately consult a doctor if you experience problems with urination or bowel movements, pain in the lower abdomen or itching in the genital area. Also an alarming signal is a disruption of the menstrual cycle and the inability to get pregnant.

As a rule, after identifying the cause of the increase in leukocytes and completing a course of treatment, their number returns to normal. But sometimes a paradoxical situation occurs. There are no diseases or inflammatory processes, and the level of leukocytes remains elevated. In this case, only a specialist can prescribe preventive measures and give useful recommendations, depending on each specific situation. A woman should follow the rules of personal hygiene, avoid casual intimate relationships and regularly undergo preventive examinations with a gynecologist.

Reduced content or absence of leukocytes in the smear

There are deviations from the norm in the other direction - when leukocytes in the smear are absent or contained in small quantities. In this case, there is also a health problem. Most often, such tests are performed in women after menopause or in those who are not sexually active. Such a deviation can have dangerous consequences, so the woman should be constantly monitored by a doctor and, if possible, restore a full intimate life.

It is impossible to completely avoid the risk of developing certain diseases, since a person lives in society, is constantly in contact with other people and does not have the opportunity to create sterile conditions for himself. But every woman can take care of her health. To do this, it is enough to observe moderation in all respects - eat healthy food in sufficient quantities, lead an orderly intimate life with a regular partner, visit the gynecologist on time and listen to the signals of your body. All this will reduce the risk of diseases or eliminate them in the early stages.

The objects for taking biopsy material are the pelvic organs:

vagina;
urethra;
urinary channel;
lower segment of the uterus (cervix);
cervical canal.

If there is a suspicion of problems with the reproductive organ or there is not enough information for an accurate diagnosis, then the research is carried out more deeply: taking aspirates from the uterine cavity is prescribed. Under certain conditions, smears are applied to glass and stained with formaldehyde. This makes it possible to identify serious, malignant problems in the reproductive organ.

During the process the following may be discovered:

yeast/fungi of a unicellular structure;
diplococci/round bacteria;
Trichomonas/Trichomonas vaginalis.

This diagnostic method allows you to recognize different representatives of the biocenosis of the genital area in women. It will not allow you to detect more serious pathologies. An extensive search will yield only a cytological examination.

In the margins of the laboratory system, cytology is a special space. Taking smears for flora and cytology are different areas and specialists who prove different pathologies. The science of cytology is a branch of biology that studies cells and their structure. Widely used in medicine.

Through the science of cytology, reactions to external stimuli are also studied. Thanks to this, in the modern world it has become possible to find not only the disease itself, but also ways to reduce inflammatory attacks, as well as treatment options.

The study of flora occurs in an accessible microscopic way. Typically, such a study is prescribed during a routine examination. Cytology is not included in the general examination. When studying the proposed material, the main attention is paid to the structure/structure of the cell. Pathology in the uterus is detected by studying the inner layer of this organ and the cervical canal. Various diseases of the genitourinary system are studied by taking analysis from the urinary canal, as well as from the bladder itself. The norm is when the cylindrical epithelium, leukocytes and microorganisms coming from the vagina are clearly visible (in small quantities). The results are informative thanks to the staining of the cytological specimen, but the specialist’s perspective and knowledge also play an important role.

Attention! Every woman, at least once a year, is simply obliged to regularly undergo a cytology test. Only this method will allow us to identify cancer diseases.

Indications for testing

Tests for microflora from the tissue of the genitourinary system are very important for every woman. They allow you to diagnose the epithelial layer of the entire system and promptly identify the disease.

To determine diseases, the nature of which we will call sexually transmitted, the indications for concern are primarily vaginal discharge/burning/itching. Discharge (foamy/purulent/curdled) is already a reason to suspect thrush, gonorrhea, or trichomoniasis.

To determine a more serious pathology of the genitourinary system, which tells us about an increased level of leukocytes, the following symptoms must be present:

acute pain in the pelvic area;
frequent, painful urination;
itching/burning sensation;
foul odor/purulent discharge;
failure of the menstrual cycle;
infertility;
discomfort when walking/sexual intercourse;

All of the above are signs of such serious diseases as: cystitis/urethritis, adnexitis, various pathologies of the cervix and appendages, endometritis, cancer.

Attention! Timely, or better yet, systematic access to a medical facility will help you maintain not only your health, but also your life. Many diseases lead to infertility. Constant monitoring and testing will ensure you have a normal sex life, childbearing and will help prevent a serious diagnosis.

Preparing for the test

To ensure the reliability of the information, preparation is required, which will take three days. Three days before the test you should refrain from:

from intimacy of a sexual nature;
immersion in a bath, pool/any douching;
use of medicinal suppositories.

A small diet that includes fiber and excludes harmful foods and alcohol is also preferable.

The delivery procedure is virtually painless, but very important. That is why you need to take seriously both the preparation and the test itself.

Analysis transcript

In a healthy state, in a representative of the fairer sex, the number of lactobacilli is 90-95%. These microorganisms work for a process that protects the genitals from external attacks by maintaining the required acidity in the microflora. Any violations lead to the opposite result.

To record tests in medicine, the initial letters of the Latin alphabet are used.

Letters to indicate the place where tests are taken

Other medical terms used for tests:

Also in laboratories I use the “+” sign, which is divided into four categories, calculated by increasing number.

«+» / small quantity;
«++» / average number;
«+++» / increased quantity;
«++++» / plentiful quantity.

Abs – indicates the absence of microorganisms.

Treatment is prescribed after a thorough examination.

The presence of a mucus product is present in every woman, but mucus should not get inside the urethra or urinary canal, otherwise it will cause inflammation.
The number of epithelium and leukocytes that exceeds the norm will also indicate inflammation.
The presence of an organism such as candida is acceptable, but in very small numbers. Their reproduction is facilitated not only by uncontrolled sexual intercourse, but also by simpler things: decreased immunity, fatigue.
Microorganisms such as Trichomonas indicate the presence of a corresponding disease;
Gardnerella for the presence of gardnerellosis.
Gonococci will show gonorrhea in the results.
Fungi of the genus Candida are an indicator of dysbiosis (reduction of Doderlein bacilli).

Degrees of vaginal smear purity

Taking a smear is not only to identify microorganisms, but also to determine the degree of cleanliness of the vagina. This is a separate collection of material, which is carried out by taking material from the walls of the vagina. Then, the material is dried on individual glass.

For indications of purity, 4 degrees were determined. Of these, the first two are accepted as the norm, degrees 3 and 4 determine the presence of pathology.

The number of white blood cells/leukocytes is approximately 0 - 5, a small number of bacteria are observed in the microflora, and the maximum number of Doderlein bacilli is recorded. The indicators are considered ideally pure and are given the first degree.

The amount is from 5 to 10, in a smear, microorganisms such as yeast fungi or cocci are present to a minimum. The number of rods is considered sufficient, mucus and the presence of white bodies are found in a moderate order. The second degree is diagnosed.

An increase in the number of corpuscles to 50 also reveals an increase in mucus, the level of Doderlein rods decreases significantly. The third degree is diagnosed.

If the quantity is no longer countable, then you can see such a term when describing the analysis as “completely”. Various venereal microorganisms are also found. There are no rods that can protect the body, the level of mucus and epithelial cells increases (a kind of buildup). The last degree is diagnosed.

Attention! The fourth/last degree is a clear sign of a serious inflammatory process. If you already have the third, and even more so the fourth degree, you should first of all go to a medical institution, retake tests, establish the cause, and then receive treatment.

Leukocytes in a smear are normal in women

Every woman has a minimum number of white blood cells in her blood. Therefore, the count from 0 to 30 is taken as the norm.

An increase in leukocytes will be a clear sign of an inflammatory disease. If the number of leukocytes exceeds all acceptable norms, then this will be a clear sign of cancer.

Norm of leukocytes during pregnancy

Pregnancy causes an increase in white blood cells

The increase occurs for several reasons:

adjustment of hormonal levels;
decreased immunity;
concentration/accumulation of white bodies.

Against the background of an increase in the production of the hormone estrogen, the amount of acidic medium, Doderlein bacillus, also increases. This promotes the concentration of leukocytes, a kind of protective reaction.

Indicators with high concentrations (from 50 to 100) in pregnant women do not yet indicate cancer problems. Such numbers are observed in the process of thrush/urogenital candidiasis.

Attention! Thrush is not a protective reaction of the body, but an infection that negatively affects the fetus and requires particularly careful treatment before birth. It can provoke a miscarriage, as well as “poison” the birth canal for the baby.

The norm of leukocytes in a smear before menstruation

Tests before menstruation are considered “dirty”. In terms of the number of cells in a smear, the norm corresponds to the standard test results that pregnancy will show (see table for pregnant women). This occurs due to a hormonal imbalance. In cases of increased indicators, it is recommended to retake the tests a week after the menstrual cycle, and then draw conclusions.

The norm of leukocytes in a smear after menstruation

After menstruation, the deviation is observed to a minor extent, since the body has not yet been completely cleansed.

Inconsistency with standard data is not a reason to panic; repeated tests are recommended a week after menstruation.

The norm of leukocytes in a smear in virgins

The number of leukocytes in virgins corresponds to the purity of the smear in adult, healthy women; this table indicated above should be a guideline.

The reasons for the increase in white blood cells may be the following factors:

failure to comply with hygiene standards;
use of dirty/other people's linen, including new underwear and bed linen;
hypothermia;
visiting public swimming pools, baths;
masturbation.

Starting from the age of 10-11, it is already possible to take the girl to a gynecologist for tests.

Reasons for the growth of leukocytes in a gynecological smear

A slight increase in the number of leukocytes may indicate an inflammatory type pathology, but is not yet a negative result. First, laboratory technicians look at the presence of these cells, and then at their condition. If the cells are destroyed, pathology is confirmed. Calm, undestroyed bodies, even slightly exceeding the above amount, are not a sign of any acute diseases.

A smear with a thick consistency is often misleading. It is difficult to see, since the cells seem to be superimposed on one another, mixed with leukocytes. In this case, it is recommended to take tests twice.

Attention! Repeating tests is, in principle, useful, because laboratory errors are not uncommon even in the modern world. Incorrect preparation for the test can also be a bad result.

Reasons for the decrease in the number of leukocytes

Everything in the body is interconnected. A decrease in white cells is not always an indication of health. In such cases, it is recommended to take another blood test. If leukocytes have decreased there too, this may also indicate a process of serious inflammation. Most often, low numbers indicate problems in the endocrine system, gastrointestinal disorders, and various viruses.

Monitoring the level of leukocytes is important at any age, since for young women this is fraught with infertility, and for mature women with serious illnesses. Also, a low level will be an indicator of decreased immunity.

Conclusion

You need to monitor your body from an early age. A woman is a continuation of humanity, her reproductive organ must always be healthy, otherwise it will have a detrimental effect on both her and the unborn baby. Visiting a gynecologist at least once a year, getting tested and receiving timely treatment is the key to a healthy generation.

Every woman has had to undergo a smear test more than once when visiting a gynecologist. What does the number of leukocytes mean when deciphering this analysis and what does a deviation from the norm indicate?

smear of a healthy woman

The norm for leukocytes in a smear in women lies within strict limits. But if they are significantly increased or, conversely, less than expected, then this indicates the presence of a disease and the doctor prescribes an additional examination. What does this indicator mean for women's health?

Leukocytes is a collection of types of blood cells whose function is to resist any infection. If their number on the mucous membrane of the vagina, cervix and urethra does not exceed certain limits (the norm for leukocytes in a smear in women is clearly defined), then this indicates that there are no inflammatory processes in the body.

Therefore, with the help of a gynecological (urogenital) smear, it is possible to determine the presence of genitourinary diseases in women of any age. In particular, such an assessment of the level of leukocytes (increased or decreased) is necessary to ascertain the infectious-inflammatory process and assess its intensity.

Reasons for prescribing such an analysis may include:

pathological discharge;
disturbance of the stability of the menstrual cycle;
pain in the lower abdomen;
itching, burning and pain when urinating;
discomfort during intimacy.

In addition, a smear test is taken in the first trimester pregnancy and after long-term use of antibiotics or hormonal drugs, as well as, prophylactically, once every three months.

A woman needs to properly prepare for this procedure, otherwise the result of this analysis will not be reliable.

For smear readings to be accurate, you must:

refuse intimate relationships no later than three days before the analysis;
do not take medications during the week preceding the test;
within two days before taking a smear, avoid the use of soap and gels for intimate hygiene, and limit yourself to using warm boiled water.

A laboratory assistant examines a smear under a microscope and calculates the content of white blood cells in the laboratory material.

The table shows the readings for this parameter corresponding to the normal content of these cells.

What does an excess of the normal level of leukocytes in a smear indicate?

If a smear examination reveals that a woman has an increased concentration of leukocytes than indicated in the table above, this indicates the likelihood of the development of inflammatory processes in organs associated with reproductive function, namely:

colpitis;
andexite;
enderometritis;
urethritis.

as well as the development of other types of inflammation.

In addition, an elevated white blood cell count may indicate that a woman has:

sexually transmitted diseases;
tumors.

The number of leukocytes can be increased as a result of taking various medications (for example, antibiotics or hormones), as a result of stress, overwork. Therefore, when the concentration of leukocytes increases, the specialist will definitely pay attention to what indicators characterize the microflora present in the biomaterial.

During pregnancy, the white blood cell count in the smear also differs slightly from the usual norm and ranges from 15 to 20. A sharp increase in the white blood cell count may indicate either a hidden pathology or the presence of inflammation in the body, which requires immediate treatment.

For example, thrush develops against the background of a fungal infection, and in cases of bacterial vaginosis and gonorrhea, infection with Staphylococcus aureus is detected. But the presence of lactobacilli, which are responsible for the acidity of the environment, may in this case be below normal.

Therefore, an increased content of leukocytes in a smear is a reason for prescribing other tests and a more detailed examination.

In what case can the number of leukocytes be lower than normal?

However, in some cases, analysis of a urogenital smear reveals a decrease in the number of leukocytes in women. Such indicators occur in older women during menopause, usually in the absence of intimate relationships. A decrease in the number of leukocytes is an alarming symptom, since this fact indicates the suppression of the body’s protective functions. In this case, the woman needs to be regularly examined by a doctor to prevent the development of a dangerous disease.

Thus, any woman, regardless of age, presence or absence of intimate relationships, during the reproductive period or during menopause should not neglect regular visits to the gynecologist.

A simple, painless procedure for taking a smear, performed using sterile disposable instruments and taking a few minutes, can promptly detect the development of dangerous diseases, many of which may be asymptomatic in the initial stages. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment will help a woman of any age in this case avoid dangerous complications.

Before deciding what elevated white blood cells in a smear in women are, the reasons for their appearance and ways to reduce them, it is necessary to understand some medical and anatomical terms.

Leukocytes are colorless blood cells that differ in appearance and functional purpose of the human cellular blood structure. The main functional purpose of leukocytes is to protect the body from internal and external pathogenic agents. Mandatory testing of the general condition of the microflora in a woman’s body during a gynecological examination is a laboratory test, or a vaginal smear, the results of which can determine an increased number of leukocytes in the smear or, conversely, their normal number.

What does it mean that leukocytes in a smear are elevated?

The reasons for a woman’s increased number of leukocytes during laboratory testing can be very different, ranging from physiological changes in the body, for example, associated with pregnancy, and ending with diseases caused by infectious and/or viral pathogens. Here are just a few of the possible cause-and-effect factors that determine elevated white blood cells in a smear:

1. Result of bacterial infection:

chlamydia;
gonorrhea;
tuberculosis of the female genital tract;
syphilis;
inguinal granuloma;
urogenital mycoplasmosis.

2. Protozoal infection, for example, trichomoniasis caused by an infectious vaginal pathogen - Trichomonas.

3. Viral infection:

cytomegalovirus;
papillomavirus;
genital herpes.

4. Fungal infections:

actinomycetes;
candidiasis, or thrush and others.

Among other reasons that determine elevated leukocytes in a smear in women are:

bacterial vaginosis, or vaginal dysbiosis;
irritation of the reproductive system organ as a result of mechanical, thermal or chemical damage, violation of general sanitary and hygienic standards, as well as certain somatic conditions of the body, for example, diabetes, urinary tract diseases, kidney disease, hepatitis and other pathological conditions;
allergies to dosage forms for vaginal douching, lubricants, and in some cases to male sperm.

As you can see, the palette of various cause-and-effect factors that determine that leukocytes in a smear are elevated is quite extensive.

Norm of leukocytes in a smear

Vaginal microflora is determined using special laboratory testing. When deciphering the analysis for a smear, leukocytes, the norm for women is no more than 15 units, it is most convenient to use a special table, which allows you to give a more informative picture of the general state of the microflora of the female reproductive organ. For convenience, use the following notation:

C – smear from the mucous membrane of the uterine cervical canal;
V – smear taken from the mucous membrane of the female vagina;
U - a smear that determines the condition of the mucous membrane of the urethra, or urethra.

Leukocytes in a smear, normal for women (example table):

Laboratory indicator	Vagina, V	Cervix, C	Urethra, or urethra, U
Leukocytes	0-10-15	0-30	0-5-10
Epithelium	no more than 10	no more than 10	no more than 10
Candida (yeast)	No	No	No
Trichomonas	No	No	No
Gonococci	No	No	No
Key cells	No	No	No
Mucus	No	moderately	No
Other flora	moderately	No	No

A lot of leukocytes in the smear, that is, exceeding the norm by 15 units, indicates the presence of inflammatory processes in the vagina associated with a violation of its microflora. This symptomatic sign needs to be further investigated through a more thorough diagnosis. A slight deviation from the norm may be observed during the premenstrual cycle. A separate category is pregnant women.

A gynecological smear is a mandatory procedure when examining the physiological state of a woman during pregnancy. It can definitely be said that in a laboratory study, leukocytes in a smear during pregnancy are determined with a significant change in their functional tasks. At this time, a woman’s immune defense is weakened, and accordingly the body’s protective reactions are reduced to a minimum, which represents a hidden threat against various infectious lesions of the body. The permissible concentration of leukocytes in a smear of a pregnant woman should not exceed 20 units.

If after a laboratory examination it is determined that there are a lot of leukocytes in the smear, what does this mean and what to do next? Depending on the physiological state of the woman, taking into account all individual characteristics and contraindications, the observing gynecologist determines the causes of this condition and selects the appropriate method of further treatment. If leukocytes are found entirely in a smear of a pregnant woman, then a special additional examination for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) will be required, which will determine the presence of infectious pathogens with maximum accuracy.

What to do and how to treat?

A gynecological vaginal smear was taken, leukocytes are elevated, what does this mean for a woman, and how to react in the future? First of all, you should not give in to panic, but put yourself in the hands of qualified specialists who will conduct an adequate diagnosis and select the appropriate treatment. There are various therapeutic modalities for this clinical problem. At the initial stage, the general health of the woman is determined, or the duration of her pregnancy, the sensitivity and reaction of microorganisms to medications, and so on.

For thrush, the use of medical antifungal agents is effective. Preference is given to the following pharmacological combinations:

sertaconazole;
nystatin;
pimafucin and others.

If gonorrhea is diagnosed, then pharmacological antibacterial drugs are used, such as:

erythromycin;
cefixime;
ceftriaxone;
azithromycin and other drugs.

Syphilis in women is a particularly complex disease that is most dangerous during pregnancy. The main “fighters” against the disease are pharmacological agents from the penicillin group. For pregnant women, treatment of syphilis is provided by specific therapy, which takes place in several stages.

Antiviral drug combinations have proven themselves to be effective in the treatment of genital herpes.

How can traditional medicine help?

In addition to official medical treatment, traditional medicine also copes well with reducing the number of leukocytes in a smear. All of the folk treatment recipes described below can be carried out at home, in consultation with your doctor. The only limitation is the reaction of the woman’s body to this or that drug according to allergic indicators, since all folk recipes are based on the use of various medicinal herbs and herbs.

Recipe No. 1. Two tablespoons of dry chamomile are poured into 500 ml of water and brought to a boil. Vaginal douching can be started at a temperature of the herbal decoction of no more than 37ºC. This method of treatment can be compared with a solution of furatsilin prescribed by a doctor as a prophylaxis. It is recommended to carry out the entire treatment procedure twice a day, morning and evening before bedtime.

Recipe No. 2. Bee honey and aloe juice are mixed in absolutely equal proportions. After moistening a cotton swab in this solution, you must then insert it into the vagina. Experience suggests that after 5-7 days of daily twice-daily treatment, the number of leukocytes upon re-examination decreases significantly.

chamomile (dry);
St. John's wort;
oak bark (pharmaceutical);
red root;
nettle.

All prepared medicinal components are taken in equal proportions, one tablespoon at a time, and poured with boiling water in an amount of 500 ml. The entire broth is cooled to a temperature acceptable to the body and the douching procedure can begin. After two weeks of daily treatment (once a day), some improvements in the state of the microflora are noticeable in laboratory testing.

Recipe No. 4. Brewed linden blossom tea will be an excellent preventive remedy. You will need one tablespoon of medicinal raw material per glass of boiling water. After straining, it is recommended to drink this tea at least 2-3 times a day.

Recipe No. 5. You can reduce the number of leukocytes with the help of oats. To do this you will need two tablespoons of unpeeled oats and two glasses of boiling water. After infusing for 15 minutes, the remedy is ready. All that remains is to strain the broth and drink ½ glass 3 times a day. The course of treatment is designed for at least 30-40 days, after which it is recommended to undergo a re-examination.

Recipe No. 6. To normalize the level of leukocytes, a herbal mixture will help, which includes:

strawberries - 2 tablespoons;
nettle leaves – 30 g;
rose hips – 50 g;
stinging nettle leaves – 50 g.

All ingredients are crushed, poured with half a liter of boiling water, and infused for 1.5 hours. After straining, take half a glass 3 times a day. The course of treatment is 2-3 weeks.

You can increase your immunity with the help of certain foods:

natural honey;
citrus fruits (lemon, grapefruit and others);
black currants, raspberries, apples, rowan berries, cranberries, blueberries;
wheat sprouts, peppers, cabbage, tomatoes, beets.

However, it is worth warning that it is unlikely that it will be possible to reduce the number of leukocytes only with the help of folk remedies. It is worth giving preference to traditional methods of official medicine, which will provide adequate treatment, with appropriate diagnosis and the general clinical condition of the patient.