 For an appointment, call 215-762-3600
Location: Feinstein Building
216 N. Broad Street
Fourth Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19102
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Paul Nyirjesy, M.D.
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Cynthia Bayer, M.S., CRNP
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We are a nationally recognized center specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of women with chronic vaginal infections. We are able to help many women, including those who have sought help before from several care providers without success.
During your initial 45-minute evaluation, we will record your medical history and, if available, review your medical records. The physical exam will focus on vaginal symptoms and will include laboratory studies:
- Vaginal pH: pH balance is important if vaginal infections are to be avoided. While the vagina's pH changes over the course of a woman's lifetime, a healthy pH is one that is more acidic, ideally between 3.8 and 5. This acidic environment provides a natural barrier against infection and irritation.
- Wet mount: A sample of the vaginal discharge is placed on a glass slide and mixed with a salt solution. The slide is viewed under a microscope to detect bacteria, yeast cells, trichomoniasis (trichomonads), white blood cells that show an infection, or clue cells that show bacterial vaginosis.
- KOH prep: A sample of vaginal discharge is placed on a slide and mixed with a solution of potassium hydroxide (KOH). The KOH kills bacteria and cells from the vagina, leaving only yeast for a diagnosis of yeast infection
- Yeast cultures: This test confirms a yeast infection. A positive result occurs when a greater-than-normal amount of yeast grows in a sample of vaginal discharge over several days.
Important Note
For the most accurate diagnosis, it is helpful if you are experiencing symptoms at the time of your first visit. It can be difficult to evaluate you if you have recently been treated for vaginitis. For this reason, please do not use any vaginal medications, creams or douches for at least 14 days prior to your appointment.
If you live a long way from our office, we will work with your referring doctor, gynecologist or primary care physician to ensure that you receive conveniently located, ongoing care. Please provide your doctor’s name, address and contact information so that we can forward diagnostic reports and other information.
Tips for Avoiding Vaginal Infections
- Use plain unscented soap to cleanse the genital area; pat area dry or use hair dryer on low setting; avoid overcleaning
- Take showers rather than baths
- Wear cotton underwear
- Change out of wet bathing suits right away
- Avoid douches, vaginal deodorants and bubble baths
- Limit your sweets and alcohol
- After urination or bowel movements, cleanse by wiping or washing from front to back
- If you are overweight, consider losing weight
- If you have diabetes, adhere strictly to your treatment program
- Consider water soluble lubricant for vaginal intercourse, if needed for dryness (e.g., K-Y Jelly, Surgilube, I-D Personal Lubricant)
 Dr. Nyirjesy was named one of Philadelpha Magazine's Top Docs in 2009.
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