Drexel University College of Medicine

Read more about Women's Health

Paul Nyirjesy, M.D.

Cynthia Bayer, M.S., CRNP

We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of women with chronic vaginal infections that occur four or more times a year. We are able to help many women, including those who have sought help before from several care providers without success.

Your initial evaluation:
During your first 45-minute visit, 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.

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.