How is a smear taken from the urethra in men? How a smear is taken from the urethra in men Male smear

When diagnosing various urogenital pathologies in men, a special test is taken to identify the presence of an infection that could provoke the disease. Tank seeding for flora is performed in a specialized laboratory. Material for analysis is taken from the man's urethra. The patient must prepare accordingly for the procedure of taking a smear from the urethral canal. After receiving the results, they are decrypted. If infectious agents are detected in the urethra, treatment is prescribed. We will not tell you what tank culture is in gynecology, since our article will discuss a study conducted in men.

Purpose and value of the seed tank

Since the purpose of our article is to tell everything about tank culture (analysis), what it is, when it is performed, and how to decipher the results, we will start with the purpose of conducting this diagnostic study.

Bacterial culture (analysis) is prescribed to identify pathogenic microorganisms in the test material. This is an important diagnostic method for detecting infectious pathologies that are caused by pathogenic viruses, fungi, bacteria and actinomycetes. A smear for bacterial culture has high reliability, sensitivity and information content, therefore it is considered the “Gold Standard” in terms of diagnosis.

The diagnostic value of tank culture in men is that the analysis can detect the presence of the following pathogenic microorganisms:

• ureaplasma;
• mycoplasma;
• chlamydia;
• Trichomonas;
• candida;
• chronic sexually transmitted infections;
• staphylococcus;
• chronic infections of the urinary system.

The analysis can show not only the presence of a particular infectious agent, but also the concentration of pathogenic microorganisms, which will allow us to assess the intensity and severity of the disease. In addition, if we list what the culture shows, it is worth saying that during the study the sensitivity of the infection to antibacterial agents is assessed, which in the future makes it possible to quickly select an effective treatment.

Indications for analysis for men

We have figured out what a smear on a culture tank shows, now it’s our turn to tell you when this test is prescribed. A smear from the urogenital canal of men is taken during a urological examination or if there are clear signs of infection. The study is also indicated for the diagnosis of chronic sluggish inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary system. Bacterial culture is carried out when an infection is detected in a man’s sexual partner.

A culture tank from the urethra is taken from men in the following cases:

• purulent or copious mucous discharge from the urethral canal;
• redness and swelling of the genitals;
• pain during emptying the bladder or after emptying it;
• various rashes on the penis;
• frequent urination;
• inflammatory pathologies of the genitourinary area (prostatitis, urethritis, vesiculitis, etc.);
• male infertility;
• suspicion of STIs (gonorrhea, chlamydia, mycoplasmosis, trichomoniasis, etc.);
• examination for preventive purposes;
• suspected fungal infection.

Important! In order for the results to be reliable, the analysis is taken after the man has received appropriate preparation. Before the test, you must abstain from sexual intercourse, do not take alcohol or medications, and the last urination is allowed no later than 2 hours before the test.

Methods of bacterial sowing

All tests for infections in men are divided into two types:

1. General smear to assess flora.
2. Analysis to detect sexually transmitted infections.

To identify the type of microorganism, an infection test is performed. In this case, the smear is placed in a special medium and sent for examination. The following methods for identifying the causative agent of the disease are used:

• PCR allows you to detect DNA infection in the test material (the method is suitable even for identifying asymptomatic carriers);
• microscopic examination of colonies of microorganisms;
• research using a biochemical series.

Decoding the results

A general smear examination is carried out over three days. The results indicate the following indicators, which in a healthy man should not differ from the norm:

• there can be no more than 5 leukocytes in the field of view;
• the normal number of epithelial cells is 5-10;
• a moderate amount of mucus is allowed;
• the presence of scanty microflora (no more than 10 v.p.z.) is considered normal;
• gonococci and trichomonas are absent in a healthy person.

Analysis for hidden infections is done faster. If the smear reveals an infection (cytomegalovirus, herpes, mycoplasma, ureaplasma, trichomonas, chlamydia or gonococci), then the man requires treatment.

A smear from the urethra in men is a mandatory diagnostic procedure that allows one to identify abnormalities in the urethra, report the presence of sexually transmitted pathogens, and also exclude or confirm the onset of the inflammatory process.

This urological analysis is prescribed to each member of the stronger sex who is bothered by unpleasant symptoms during bladder emptying or during sexual intercourse.

Indications for the procedure

A smear test is prescribed for a man if any disease is suspected or as a preventive measure, for example, when planning to conceive a child. A smear test is mandatory if you have the following complaints:

• pain during sex or when trying to empty the bladder;
• discharge from the glans penis of unknown etiology;
• irritation or rash on the surface of an intimate organ, causing burning and itching;
• difficulty passing urine when urinating;
• suspicion of sexually transmitted diseases;
• persistent gynecological or urological problems in the partner associated with PA;
• numerous unsuccessful attempts to conceive.

Pros and cons of the study

Taking urethral swabs in men has several disadvantages. Their list includes only the presence of contraindications to the procedure. It is impossible to take material for analysis at elevated body temperature, concomitant inflammatory processes in the body, when blood is released from the head of the penis, or during alcohol intoxication. Factors may affect the reliability of the analysis result.

The advantages of the examination include efficiency and minimal invasiveness. Collecting material for research takes a short period of time and is absolutely painless. The results are quite informative and report on pathologies that are in the development stage.

What pathologies can be detected

This urological manipulation is informative and can inform not only about existing infectious processes, but also about the state of the microflora, the presence of pathogens and pathogenic microorganisms. A smear from the urethra shows the following diseases:

• cystitis;
• prostatitis;
• inflammation of the urethra.

The procedure reveals such pathogenic microorganisms and infections:

• Candida fungi;
• chlamydia;
• trichomoniasis;
• mycoplasmosis;
• Staphylococcus aureus;
• Pseudomonas aeruginosa;
• E. coli, etc.

Also, by taking a smear from men, it is determined where exactly the pathological process is localized - in the bladder or urethra.

PCR to detect STIs

In addition to taking a smear for flora, biomaterial is also used to obtain information about hidden sexually transmitted infections. The procedure is standard. Next, the smear in a sterile container is sent for examination.

Using the PCR method, the following infections can be detected in a man:

• ureaplasma;
• mycoplasma;
• Trichomonas;
• gonococcus;
• cytomegalovirus;
• herpes simplex virus.

After additional examinations, the list may expand or narrow.

This analysis is considered the most effective, as it allows you to find infections that develop covertly, without symptoms.

How to prepare for a smear test

To achieve maximum reliability, you need to carefully prepare for the upcoming procedure. Usually, before prescribing the test, the doctor explains such nuances. Let's look at how to prepare for a urethral smear:

• A week before the upcoming test, the man needs to stop taking medications that are not vital. This is especially true for hormonal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Three days before taking a smear, you should limit your sex life. This applies not only to sex, but also to masturbation.
• In the evening, before morning manipulation, a man needs to perform hygiene procedures regarding the penis. It should be noted that washing or treating the organ with anything in the morning is strictly prohibited.
• It is allowed to urinate at least 3 hours before taking a smear for examination.

When performing hygiene procedures the day before, avoid scented cosmetics. You can wash with regular baby soap.

How material is collected for research

First of all, it is worth noting that only urologists, and in no case nurses, take a smear from a man’s urethra. This is due to the fact that the manipulation requires correct execution - the slightest excessive movement will damage the mucous membranes, which will lead to pain and other unpleasant symptoms.

The doctor takes a swab of flora from the man's urethra using a small probe, which is inserted into the urethra about 3-4 centimeters. Next, the laboratory assistant applies the man’s biological material onto a special glass. After some time, a slide with a smear from the urethra is examined under a microscope.

Painfulness of the procedure

Many men refuse to take a urethral test due to fear of pain. Most agree to continue being ill, but are not ready for this event. Based on numerous reviews, we can conclude that the procedure is painless, but still unpleasant. Pain sometimes occurs due to incorrect execution technique.

If there is an acute infection in the urethra, the procedure may be somewhat painful. Urinating afterward may be difficult. There may even be slight spotting in the urine.

Some patients complain that after taking a smear for PCR, they experience an unpleasant burning sensation in the penis, which intensifies significantly when urinating. In fact, this reaction is natural and does not require treatment. After a day, the unpleasant symptoms disappear on their own.

There is also an opinion that men who have inflammation and swelling of the urethra experience severe pain when inserting a probe. In this case, the procedure is replaced by an alternative - urine culture tank. The effectiveness of this manipulation is high only if the man has pathological processes in the urethra or bladder. General diagnostics will not reveal any sexually transmitted infections.

In the absence of acute inflammation and the professionalism of the doctor performing the procedure, the manipulation is not painful, and there are no or minimal side effects after it. If discomfort persists or increases a day after taking a smear, you should consult your doctor.

Possible consequences

If pain appears in a man after a urethral smear and persists for longer than 3 days, the patient should urgently go to the hospital. You may also experience prolonged bleeding when urinating, which is not normal.

Often pain and burning sensations are accompanied by purulent discharge with an unpleasant odor. In this case, we are talking about infection during the manipulation.

If you consult a doctor in a timely manner, the prognosis is very favorable.

Cost of the procedure

Prices vary depending on the region. In addition, the patient can get tested in different places, which also changes the cost. For example, in a regular clinic, a paid service costs less than in a top-class medical clinic.

The average price for collecting and examining a smear from the urethra is 350-500 rubles.

Decoding: what indicators are considered normal

When studying the analysis, laboratory technicians are based on the following indicators:

• Trichomonas. In the absence of disease, flat microorganisms that are sexually transmitted are absent in the smear.
• Epithelium. Should be present in the range from 5 to 10. If the indicator exceeds the norm, the man has an inflammatory process of the urethra.
• In the absence of pathology in the smear, mucus is observed in a minimal amount.
• Leukocytes. These immune cells are necessarily contained in a smear from the urethra. The normal value varies from 0 to 5. If the number is increased by at least one division, we are talking about an infection that needs to be treated with medications - cystitis or prostatitis.
• Candida fungi. Absent under normal conditions.
• Gonococci. The presence of these microorganisms indicates gonorrhea in a man. A healthy person does not have them.

If the result is bad

Do not despair and give up when an STI is detected or when a urethral disease is diagnosed. First, you should retake the smear, preferably in a different place, to eliminate errors.

If the result is confirmed again, you should listen carefully to the doctor and begin treatment of the pathology as soon as possible.

Under no circumstances should you self-medicate, as each infection in the smear is treated differently.

Therapeutic measures

Treatment after receiving the results is purely individual. As stated, each type of infection or disease requires different therapies. Let's consider the main treatment tactics:

• Normalization of nutrition. All junk food is excluded, the diet is enriched with dietary meat, cereals, fruits and vegetables. In addition, fortified courses may be prescribed.
• If bacteria are detected, prescribe antibiotic drugs. Before a specific drug is selected, it is necessary to determine the sensitivity of pathogens to the antibiotic.
• If the pathological process is caused by fungi, the doctor prescribes antifungal drugs.
• If inflammation is present, it may be necessary anti-inflammatory And antimicrobial facilities.
• For problems with the prostate gland it is prescribed herbal preparations together with antibiotics in the form of injections.

It is known that microorganisms, despite their “small growth,” also have food “predilections,” an optimum temperature, in general, an environment that is ideal for them, where they feel comfortable and good, and therefore begin to multiply and grow intensively.

Bacteriological seeding or, as it is commonly called in short, tank seeding, is used to obtain a large number of microbes of one type (pure culture) in order to study their physicochemical and biological properties, so that later use the obtained data to diagnose infectious diseases.

Unfortunately, even the currently popular and other methods, the main disadvantage of which are false positive or false negative results, cannot always identify the pathogen. In addition, they are not able to select targeted antibacterial drugs. A similar problem is solved by a sowing tank, which is often in no hurry to prescribe, citing the fact that, for example, it is slowly cultivated, and the cost of analysis is considerable. However, health is worth it!

Conditions are needed for nutrition and breathing

Microbiologists now know that each pathogen needs its own “native” environment, taking into account its pH, redox potentials, viscosity, humidity and osmotic properties. Media can be soft and hard, simple and complex, universal and not very universal, but in all cases they must provide nutrition, respiration, reproduction and growth of the bacterial cell.

an example of the growth of microorganisms after tank sowing in a nutrient medium

Some media (thioglycolate, Sabouraud) are suitable for a wide range of microorganisms and are called universal. Others are intended only for certain species, for example, pneumococcus and Staphylococcus aureus, which produce hemolysins, grow on blood agar, which serves to isolate particularly “capricious” and, at the same time, dangerous strains. Thus, there are many types of media, where each of them grows its own range of microorganisms.

The purpose of cultivating microorganisms and its significance for diagnosis

In addition to water, air, soil, which contain various microorganisms in varying concentrations, including those that bring disease (pathogenic), many branches of medical science are interested in microbes living on the skin and mucous membranes of the human body, which can be represented by:

• Permanent inhabitants who do not pose any danger to humans, that is, the normal microflora of the body, without which we simply cannot live. For example, the disappearance of bacteria living in the intestines and participating in the digestion process leads to dysbiosis, which is not easy to treat. The same thing happens with the disappearance of vaginal microflora. It is immediately populated by opportunistic microorganisms, gardnerella, for example, which cause;
• Conditionally pathogenic flora, which is harmful only in large quantities under certain conditions (immunodeficiency). The above-mentioned gardnerella is a representative of this type of microorganism;
• Presence of pathogenic microbes, which are not present in a healthy body. They are alien to the human body, where they enter accidentally through contact with another (sick) person and cause the development of an infectious process, sometimes quite severe or even fatal. For example, a meeting with pathogens - no matter what, it is treated at first, but (God forbid!) it will release cholera, plague, smallpox, etc.

Fortunately, many of them have been defeated and are currently kept under seal in special laboratories, but humanity must be prepared at any moment for the invasion of an invisible enemy capable of destroying entire nations. Bacteriological culture in such cases plays, perhaps, the main role in identifying the microorganism, that is, determining the genus, species, type, etc. (toxiconomic position), which is very important for the diagnosis of infectious processes, including sexually transmitted diseases.

Thus, sowing methods, like nutrient media, are different, however, they have the same goal: obtain a pure culture without foreign impurities in the form of microbes of other classes, which live everywhere: in water, in the air, on surfaces, on people and inside them.

When is tank sowing prescribed and how to understand the answers?

Name of microorganism and its quantity

Patients do not prescribe bacteriological analysis to themselves; this is done by the doctor if he has suspicions that the problems of a patient presenting various complaints are associated with the penetration of a pathogenic pathogen into the body or with the increased reproduction of microorganisms that constantly live with a person, but exhibit pathogenic properties only in certain conditions. Having passed the test and after some time received an answer, a person gets lost and sometimes gets scared when he sees incomprehensible words and symbols, therefore, to prevent this from happening, I would like to give a brief explanation on this issue:

When examining biological material for the presence of pathogenic microorganisms, the answer can be negative or positive (“bad tank culture”), since the human body is only a temporary shelter for them, and not a natural habitat.

Sometimes, depending on what material is to be inoculated, you can see the number of microorganisms expressed in colony-forming units per ml (one living cell will grow an entire colony) - CFU/ml. For example, culture of urine for bacteriological examination under normal conditions gives up to 10 3 CFU/ml of all identified bacterial cells, in doubtful cases (repeat the analysis!) - 10 3 - 10 4 CFU/ml, in case of an inflammatory process of infectious origin - 10 5 or higher CFU /ml. About the last two options in colloquial speech, sometimes they are simply expressed: “Bad tank sowing.”

How to “find control” against a pathogenic microorganism?

Simultaneously with the inoculation of the material in such situations, the microflora is inoculated for sensitivity to antibiotics, which will give a clear answer to the doctor - which antibacterial drugs and in what doses will “scare” the “uninvited guest”. There is also a decryption here, for example:

• The type of microorganism, for example, is the same E. coli in an amount of 1x10^6;
• The name of the antibiotic with the designation (S) indicates the sensitivity of the pathogen to this drug;
• The type of antibiotics that do not act on the microorganism is indicated by the symbol (R).

Bacteriological analysis is of particular value in determining sensitivity to antibiotics, since the main problem in the fight against chlamydia, mycoplasma, ureaplasma, etc. remains the selection of effective treatment that does not harm the body and does not impact the patient’s pocket.

Table: Alternative example of tank culture results identifying effective antibiotics

Proper preparation for bacteriological analysis is the key to reliable results

Any biological material taken from a person can be subjected to bacteriological analysis(skin, blood, sperm, mucous membranes of the oral cavity, respiratory and genitourinary tracts, gastrointestinal tract, organs of vision, hearing and smell, etc.). Most often, tank culture is prescribed by gynecologists and urologists, so we should dwell on it a little.

Proper preparation for bacteriological culture will be the key to the correct result, because otherwise, the analysis will have to be taken again and wait for the appointed time. How to donate blood from a vein for sterility is the task of health workers. As a rule, nothing depends on the patient here; he simply provides the elbow bend, and the nurse takes the sample into a sterile tube in compliance with all the rules of asepsis and antisepsis.

Another thing is urine or from the genital tract. Here the patient must ensure the first stage (collection), following the prescribed rules.

• It should be noted that the urine of women and men is somewhat different, although in the bladder of both sexes it is sterile:
• In women, when passing through the urethra it can capture a small number of non-pathogenic cocci, although in general it often remains sterile;
  1. For men, things are a little different. The anterior part of the urethra can supply passing urine with:
  2. diphtheroids;
  3. staphylococci;

some non-pathogenic gram-negative bacteria, as will subsequently be shown by bacteriological analysis.

However, if they are in an acceptable concentration (up to 10 3 CFU/ml), then there is nothing to be afraid of, this is a variant of the norm. To avoid the presence of other microorganisms and to ensure maximum sterility of the taken material, before the analysis, the genital organs are thoroughly cleaned (the entrance to the vagina in women is closed with a cotton swab - protection from the ingress of genital secretions). For analysis, an average portion of urine is taken (the beginning of urination into the toilet, approximately 10 ml average portion in a sterile jar

, ending in the toilet). Patients need to know: urine taken for culture must be processed no later than two hours when stored at no higher than 20°C, so transportation time should be calculated.

In addition, material for the culture tank, if necessary, is taken from the urethra and rectum in men, from the urethra, rectum, vagina, cervix and cervical canal in women, but this happens in the medical institution where the patient must arrive. Washing, douching and using antiseptics in such cases is prohibited.

Other issues of concern to patients Many patients are interested in how many days the analysis is done. This question cannot be answered unequivocally; it all depends on what material is being studied and what pathogen should be looked for. Sometimes the answer is ready in 3 days, sometimes in a week or even 10 - 14 days

, since some samples require subculture to another medium.

For pregnant women, tank sowing is mandatory, it is given 2 times(at registration and at 36 weeks), in this case, a smear is taken not only from the genital tract, but also from the mucous membranes of the nose and pharynx. The object of search in this case, in addition to urogenital infections, will be Staphylococcus aureus (Staphylococcus aureus), which in the postpartum period can cause a lot of trouble (purulent mastitis, etc.). In addition, pregnant women are required to undergo urine culture, scraping of the vaginal epithelium and smears from the cervix and cervical canal.

Many women, before going for the procedure, are very afraid of such terrible words and begin to think: “Is this necessary? Maybe I won’t go.” We hasten to assure you that the tests are absolutely painless. A smear from the cervix and cervical canal is taken with a sterile cytobrush, without causing the woman absolutely any pain, but subsequently a culture tank from the w/m and c/c will protect both the expectant mother and the fetus from possible complications. The objects of search during pregnancy are the causative agents of chlamydia, urea and mycoplasma, yeast-like (usually Candida albicans), and other opportunistic and pathogenic microorganisms.

Video: video demonstration on tank culture from the cervical canal

Special cases of particular interest to those taking tests

Once pathogenic microorganisms enter the genital tract, they take hold within a very short time and begin their harmful activities. For example, always pathogenic gonococci (Neisseria), which are the culprits of a rather unpleasant disease called and related to STDs, feel “at home” literally on the 3rd day. They begin to actively reproduce and boldly move upward along the reproductive tract, capturing more and more new territories. Everyone knows that gonorrhea can now be treated well and almost no one is afraid of it anymore. But first you need to find her. The main method of searching for this infection is culture, culture, identification using Gram staining, and microscopy.

“Coffee beans” (diplococci) found in pairs in a smear taken “for flora” from the genital tract do not indicate the presence of a sexually transmitted disease.

It should be noted that while a scraping from the mucous membranes of the genitourinary tract taken for culture for ureaplasma is not such a rare occurrence, doctors themselves often avoid urine culture, since it is more difficult to work with.

It creates difficulties in diagnosis, causing great harm not only during pregnancy. In addition, chlamydia causes many diseases that are characteristic not only of women, but also of the male population, so it is sown, cultivated, studied, sensitivity to antibacterial therapy is determined and, thus, it is combated.

During pregnancy, it is generally difficult to do without bacteriological culture, since many microorganisms, masked in a cytological smear, can be missed. Meanwhile, the effect of some STD pathogens on the fetus can be detrimental. In addition, treating a pregnant woman is much more difficult, and prescribing antibiotics “by eye” is simply unacceptable.

Sowing methods

To isolate pure cultures of pathogens, the first stage is to inoculate them on appropriate media, which is carried out under special (sterile!) conditions. Basically, the transfer of material to the medium is carried out using devices used back in the 19th century by the great Louis Pasteur:

• Bacterial loop;
• Pasteur pipette;
• Glass rod.

Of course, many instruments have undergone changes over 2 centuries, replaced by sterile and disposable plastic ones, however, the old ones have not remained in the past, continuing to serve microbiological science to this day.

The first stage of obtaining colonies requires compliance with certain rules:

1. Sowing is carried out over an alcohol lamp in a box pre-treated with disinfectants and quartz treatment, or in a laminar flow hood, ensuring sterility in the work area;
2. The health worker's clothing, gloves and environment must also be sterile, since the opposite interferes with the isolation of isolated strains;
3. You need to work quickly but carefully in the box; you cannot talk or be distracted; at the same time, you must remember about personal safety, because the material can be infectious.

Isolation of strains and study of pure cultures

The isolation of strains is not always the same, since some biological media found in the human body require an individual approach, for example, hemoculture (blood) is first “grown up” in a liquid medium (ratio 1: 10), since blood (undiluted) can kill microorganisms, and then, after a day or more, they are transferred to Petri dishes.

Sowing urine, gastric lavage waters and other liquid materials also has its own characteristics, where in order to obtain a pure culture, the liquid must first be centrifuged (aseptic conditions!), and only then sowed, not the liquid itself, but its sediment.

Cultivation and growing of colonies is carried out on Petri dishes or placed first in a liquid medium poured into sterile bottles, and then the isolated colonies are sown again, but on slanted agar and the material is placed in a thermostat for a day. After making sure that the resulting culture is pure, the strains are transferred to a glass slide, a smear is made and stained with Gram (most often), Ziehl-Neelsen, etc., and for differentiation, the morphology of the microbe is studied under a microscope:

• Size and shape of the bacterial cell;
• Presence of capsules, flagella, spores;
• Tinctorial properties (relationship of microorganism to staining)*.

*The reader has probably heard of such a pathogen as treponema pallidum? This is the causative agent of syphilis, and its name (pale) is why it appears that it does not perceive paint well and remains slightly pinkish when stained according to Romanovsky. Microorganisms that do not accept aniline dyes are called gram-negative, and those that perceive are called gram-positive. Gram-negative bacteria are given a pink or red color when stained with Gram by additional dyes (fuchsin, safranin).

Tank culture can be called an ancient analysis, but its popularity does not decrease because of this, although modern bacteriology has the ability to isolate not only strains, but also a separate cell from it, which is called clone. However, to obtain a clone, a special device is required - a micromanipulator, which is not available in ordinary laboratories, since it is used mainly for research purposes (genetic research).

A urethral swab is taken from men to check the presence and quantity of germs in the urethra. The results of a flora analysis in men make it possible to determine whether existing microorganisms provoke the development of infections and inflammations. Many patients who have never had to undergo this procedure before are interested in how a smear is taken from men, why the material is taken for analysis, whether it hurts during the procedure and what the results may indicate.

What diseases can be detected using a smear?

A smear from the urethra allows you to determine the presence of inflammation, identify microorganisms that cause infections in men, and assess the composition of the microflora. Thus, a smear from the urethra first of all makes it possible to establish the presence of inflammation and nonspecific diseases of the male genitourinary system, such as:

• inflammation of the prostate gland (prostatitis);
• inflammation of the bladder (cystitis);
• inflammation of the urinary tract (urethritis).

The specialist takes a smear, analyzes the microflora and determines what exactly caused the appearance of the listed diseases. Inflammation in the prostate, urethra or bladder can be caused by traumatic injuries and harmful microorganisms. If the diseases are caused by injuries, this is usually determined without special tests, and a smear is not taken for flora in men. If the cause of the infectious-inflammatory process in the male genitourinary system is microorganisms, then a smear from the urethra is required, because with its help, it is possible to determine which microorganism is the causative agent, conduct additional research and prescribe appropriate treatment.

Analysis of smears for flora allows us to determine the types of microorganisms that provoke the development of major infections of the male genitourinary organs. A smear in men may reveal infections such as:

• mycoplasmosis;
• thrush (candidiasis);
• ureaplasmosis;
• mobiluncusosis;
• chlamydia;
• leptothrixosis;
• trichomoniasis.

In addition, bacteria that provoke the development of nonspecific urethritis can be found in a smear in men. The presence of Staphylococcus aureus, saprophytic Staphylococcus, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus epidermidis and other microorganisms is checked.

How is a smear taken?

The smear is taken quite simply and quickly. First of all, a man needs to thoroughly wash the anal area, perineum and penis (in some situations, they are limited to only washing the penis, this will be told by the specialist who will take a smear). The skin is washed with warm water and soap, and then thoroughly rinsed with clean warm water and dried with sterile gauze wipes.

After completing the hygienic procedures, the specialist takes a sterile instrument (a cotton swab, a urethro-genital probe with a tampon, a bacteriological loop or a Volkmann spoon). The instrument must be new. Make sure your doctor takes it out of the package.

The instrument is inserted into the external opening in the penis. The instrument is inserted into the urethra 2-4 cm and rotated 2-3 times around its axis. Then it is taken out. At the same time, the doctor makes rotational movements. After this, the instrument with the taken material is placed in a sterile tube or a smear is made on a glass slide. Without taking into account hygiene procedures, taking a smear takes no more than 1-1.5 minutes.

The doctor makes rotational movements with the instrument in order to better collect material from the walls of the urethra.

You need to properly prepare for the test. Most laboratories give the same recommendations, but it is better to check with your location first. Before taking the test, you must refrain from urinating for at least 2 hours, because Because of this, the results of the study are distorted.

Some patients have a massage of the urethra or prostate gland before taking a smear from the urethra. The prostate is massaged through the rectum. Massage of the urethra is performed using a tight bougie. The doctor inserts it into the entire length of the urethra (about 10-11 cm). This allows you to increase the sensitivity of the analysis and determine the presence of diseases in long-standing, subacute, implicit or hidden forms.

When collecting material, you feel a discomfort, sometimes a little painful, but tolerable.

For several hours after the test, you may experience discomfort, itching and a moderate burning sensation when urinating.

How is a smear analyzed?

The collected material is applied to a special glass slide. In some situations, while the material remains liquid, the doctor places it under a microscope lens. As a rule, this is done to detect protozoan microorganisms and moving particles. In particular, such an analysis is very indicative for the diagnosis of trichomoniasis. All structures contained in a smear from the urethra are motionless, and only Trichomonas can independently make active movements. So the presence of moving microorganisms in the analyzed material is pathognomonic for this disease.

In all other cases, the analyzed material is immediately fixed on the glass. The smear is securely attached to the glass, which further contributes to better staining.

Staining a smear is the main stage of its analysis. It is very difficult to notice any elements in an unpainted smear, because... in this case, the picture will look like several transparent glasses superimposed on each other.

It is possible to distinguish between leukocytes, bacteria and cells only after staining the smear using special dyes. Depending on the purpose for which the smear is given, the appropriate dye is selected. For example, if a man is tested for microflora, Gram stain is used, but in the case of cytological studies, staining is performed using the Papanicolaou method. The technique is based on the ability of cells to react differently to the dye. Under the influence of the dye, invisible elements become noticeable, and the study and further decoding of the material begins. If a man takes a smear to identify inflammatory diseases, the material is analyzed under 900x magnification using an immersion microscope lens.

Decoding and interpretation of results

A smear from the urethra in men may contain various cells and microorganisms. It is important to know what should be present in the material and what is a signal of deviation from the norm.

Leukocytes are detected in the smear. They are cells of the immune system and are present in the urethra in small quantities in healthy men. The norm is the content of leukocytes within the range of 0-5 in the field of view. If the number of leukocytes in the smear is increased, this usually indicates the presence of an infection (prostatitis, urethritis).

Epithelium is detected in the analyzed material. These are the cells that line the inner surface of the urethra. The norm is considered to be 5-10 epithelial cells in the field of view. If their number increases, this indicates the presence of inflammation.

Another component of the smear is mucus. In healthy men, it should be present in moderation. Excess mucus indicates the presence of infection.

Strepto-, entero- and staphylococci are conditionally pathogenic microbes, i.e. they can provoke the development of the disease only under certain conditions. They are representatives of the normal microflora of the human body and may be present in a smear in small quantities. An increased content of cocci, as a rule, indicates the presence of urethritis and sometimes other diseases.

There should be no gonococci in a smear of a healthy man. Their presence indicates that the man has gonorrhea.

There should be no trichomonas in the smear. The simplest Trichomonas in the analyzed material is a sure sign of trichomoniasis.

What should men do with bad tests?

If the result of a urethral smear turns out to be bad, the man first of all needs to try to suppress the emotional component of the reaction and fully concentrate on further actions. Too emotional perception of negative results can provoke many other negative consequences, the most common of which is the desire to run away from the problem, ignoring the next trip to the doctor, arguing that since nothing is bothering you, then you can ignore the problem.

However, this approach is extremely wrong. Ignoring the problem is in no way a solution, but only leads to even greater complications. The disease will progress, become chronic, and give much more serious complications, for example, such as prostatitis, infertility, impotence, etc.

One of the main problems of inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary system is that for a short time they are acute, with pronounced symptoms, but rather quickly become chronic, becoming sluggish. Clinical manifestations, however, are practically absent. In fact, after the acute period, the pathogenic microorganism rises from the urethra to the prostate and continues its activity there. After the pathogen leaves the urethra, discharge and pain disappear, which is why many men mistakenly think that they have recovered. And the disease simply went to the prostate and turned into a subacute form, almost invisible to the patient.

So even if a man does not have any pronounced symptoms, and the result of a urethral smear confirms the presence of the disease, this is evidence that an old infectious-inflammatory process is present in the man’s body, which he did not pay attention to in the past. It is important to immediately consult a doctor and complete the prescribed course of treatment. Be healthy!

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Diseases of the genitourinary system are associated with a large number of diseases. To identify the causative agent of the emerging pathology, you need to undergo a microscopic examination of a smear taken from the urethra of a man or the vagina of a woman.

An appointment for a smear from the genitourinary system is made if there is a suspicion of an inflammatory process. Due to the close location of the organs of the urinary and reproductive systems, the analysis shows where exactly the disease is localized. Microscopic examination can easily determine the presence of a viral or bacterial infection.

According to experts, this research method is quite informative. It can show the presence of an inflammatory process that occurs in a latent form, without obvious signs of illness. Therefore, it is required during a routine visit to the gynecologist and urologist.

Reasons for prescribing a smear from the genitourinary system:

• Scheduled visit to a gynecologist, urologist;
• Suspicion of infectious or fungal diseases;
• Unusual discharge;
• The appearance of an unpleasant odor;
• Rash and itching on the genitals;
• Unpleasant and painful sensations during sexual intercourse or during urination.

Urogenital smear examination is the most reliable method for identifying hidden infections. According to statistics, 1/4 of the population are carriers of a latent infection who do not have symptoms. As a rule, this type of disease does not always cause enormous harm to human health; in some cases, it goes away on its own. This can be observed more often than usual in men.

If unusual sensations and changes in the genitourinary organs, itching, peeling, discharge or pain appear, you should immediately seek help from a specialist. After conducting the necessary research, the doctor will be able to accurately identify the cause of the disorder and prescribe the correct treatment. Complications of diseases can cause serious disruptions in the overall functioning of the body, and in particular provoke the development of infertility.

How is a smear taken?

If an inflammatory disease of the genitourinary system is suspected, a smear is taken from the urethra in men and from the vagina in women. A urologist and a gynecologist are involved in this. When taking an analysis, it is necessary to take into account the structural features of the organs of men and women. Therefore, the principle of collecting a smear will be slightly different.

In men

In the case of collecting analysis from men, this procedure is very simple. The scraping probe is inserted into the urethra to a depth of 2-3 cm, after which it is pressed against the inner wall and several rotational movements are made. After which the doctor removes the probe.

If during the collection of the analysis you need to obtain a special result with the release of the necessary secretion of the prostate gland, . A special bougie is used for this. As a result of this study, a smear on the flora in men is more informative.

Among women

When visiting a gynecologist, women have to undergo a smear test for infections more often than usual. When examined through a speculum, the doctor takes a scraping of the mucous membrane of the uterine wall. During the study, disposable sterile instruments are used.

Thanks to this research method, it is possible to avoid such serious diseases as a malignant tumor of the uterus. Research is quite easy to use and does not take much time.

Timely diagnosis reduces the risk of developing serious complications, so do not neglect visiting specialists, especially if symptoms appear.

Preparing for the study

When prescribing a test, many people wonder how a smear is taken from men and whether special preparation is needed. According to most experts, preparation is simply necessary; it will help reduce the risk of obtaining unreliable or false-positive results. As practice shows, preparation includes a number of simple procedures that everyone can handle.

A few days before the scheduled date of the study, you should avoid taking alcohol or taking medications. If it is absolutely impossible to interrupt the course of treatment, you should warn your doctor about this. This will help him take into account the composition of the medications taken, analyzing their effect on the results obtained.

When toileting the genitals, you should use only soap; the use of intimate hygiene products may affect the reliability of the results. An intimate haircut should be done if rashes, peeling and itching appear around the genitals, or if unnatural discharge appears from the glans penis or vagina.

If, when prescribing a smear, the doctor suspects the presence of hidden infections, he may recommend following a special diet. Fatty, spicy, salty and sweet foods should be excluded from the diet. It is advisable to do this 5-7 days before the analysis. The interval after urination and before taking a smear should be at least two hours.

Diseases detected by smear examination

Microscopic examination of a smear can reveal a large number of diseases. Its use will be especially relevant when identifying hidden infections. For example, the incubation period for thrush in men will be longer than in women. As a rule, with male thrush, signs of the disease at the initial stage of the disease:

Many infectious and fungal diseases of the urinary system have a similar symptomatic picture, so the pathogen can only be identified using this analysis. There are also a number of diseases that are difficult to treat due to the structural features of the virus or bacteria.

For example, a viral infection whose structure resembles bacteria. Its main feature is that it is difficult to treat. To ensure that it does not provoke the development of serious complications, early diagnosis plays an important role. Taking a smear is the only reliable way to determine this infection at the initial stage of the disease.

Based on the analysis, a specialist can easily select the right medications that will help overcome it.

Ways to prevent genitourinary tract infections

The best way to prevent the development of serious complications from genitourinary infections is to take preventive measures.

Despite the fact that taking a smear does not cause pain, not many people easily agree to this procedure. This is the main reason why men refuse to visit a urologist, since a smear for gonorrhea or microflora is regularly taken during a routine examination.

• Due to the possibility of a hidden course of the disease, serious complications can develop. In many clinics, this smear is taken for preventive purposes to detect the disease at an early stage. But besides this, there is a set of measures that you can do yourself.
• Preventive complex
• Compliance with the rules of intimate hygiene;
• Use of hypoallergenic hygiene products;
• Use of barrier type contraception;

Timely treatment of urinary tract diseases; Avoid cases of hypothermia. In order to avoid taking a smear to determine infection, you need to be careful about your health.