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  |  Women's Health  |  Gynaecological Health  |  Smear test found signs of infection
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Smear test found signs of infection

by Dr. Sarah Brewer

question
I recently had a smear test and, while the results were normal, it highlighted an infection that may need to be treated. Do you know what this infection might be and how serious it is?

answer
A smear can show signs of inflammation that might mean you have an infection. This could be a bacterial imbalance known as bacterial vaginosis, for example candida, commonly known as thrush, or chlamydia. It is usually best to visit a genito-urinary medicine clinic for a full check-up. This doesn't necessarily mean you have a sexually transmissible infection - it is just that GUM doctors are the experts in diagnosing and treating infections in this area. Fresh secretions can be viewed under the microscope to pick up conditions such as BV, which are often missed when swabs are sent to the laboratory by GPs. As a bonus, any necessary treatment from a GUM clinic is free. To find your nearest clinic, phone your local hospital.
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