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The Schiller test is a procedure that is widely used in gynecology. Thanks to it, pathologies or deviations can be detected. It is carried out by staining the cervix and vaginal vault with an iodine-containing preparation. The reaction occurs due to glycogen, which is contained in the epithelial cells: the desired area acquires a brownish tint. In case of diseases or abnormalities, the mucous membrane does not stain due to the small amount of glycogen.
Doctors advise to conduct a study in the first days after the end of menstruation. During the procedure, the doctor uses multiple optical magnification. This is necessary for a detailed examination and determination of minor changes in the vagina. Schiller’s test is necessarily included in the examination of the female of childbearing age in the field of gynecology. In addition, the gynecologist, based on the results obtained, may prescribe a biopsy or other types of colposcopy. These tests serve to confirm or refute the diagnosis. Having received a detailed picture, the doctor develops a treatment program. It is worth noting that the Schiller test is absolutely harmless, does not cause pain and does not cause negative consequences to the cervix. During the procedure, discomfort is practically eliminated.
How is the procedure?
In order to conduct a Schiller test, a gynecologist must insert a gynecological speculum into the vagina and carry out the colposcopy procedure itself, that is, clean the cervix from mucus or secretions and treat its areas with iodine-containing preparations. Most often, doctors resort to the use of Lugol’s solution. After a few minutes, the doctor cleans the sample site from the solution and dries the cervix. After that, he re-examines under a microscope. The procedure takes no more than 5 minutes.
Contraindications to the procedure
Schiller’s test is actively used in gynecological research. The reason is that it has almost no contraindications. According to statistics, not a single case has yet been found with negative consequences after the procedure. Exceptions to the rule are the intolerance of iodine and all iodine-containing substances by the woman herself, a short period after childbirth or abortion or other surgical intervention.
Indications for the procedure
Colposcopy is one of the generally accepted and recognized diagnostic methods in modern medicine in the field of gynecology. Using this study, the doctor can assess the position of the tissues of the vagina and cervix, as well as determine the presence of benign and malignant neoplasms.
This study should be carried out in women with:
- spotting after intercourse;
- the appearance of itching or uncharacteristic discharge;
- chronic infections;
- infection of the genital organs with the human papillomavirus;
- testing for cancer;
- vulvitis;
- giggle;
- colpitis;
- pregnancy planning;
- the presence of any neoplasms.
It is worth noting that in the initial stages of cervical disease occur without certain symptoms, so you can not check yourself. In this case, it is better to trust the gynecologist.
After the test, the doctor will tell you what the results mean and prescribe the necessary treatment, if any.
Doctors advise not to run your own women’s health and conduct a Schiller test at least once a year for preventive purposes.
Study Preparation
In order to prepare yourself for the Schiller test and get accurate results, you must follow a number of specific rules. First of all, two days before the study, sexual intercourse is undesirable, in addition, you do not need to douche. The day before the test, doctors do not recommend using candles or tampons, various gels and ointments. While taking a shower, it is forbidden to use means for intimate hygiene.
By following the simple instructions from the list, you can get reliable results. It is worth noting that the doctor will tell about them directly at the appointment of the procedure.
Deciphering the results of the Schiller test
The results of the Schiller test are positive and negative. In the first case, the cervix and vaginal wall, when iodine-containing drugs are applied, change color to dark brown shades. This means that the woman is healthy and has no pathologies or abnormalities.
If the epithelium does not stain or light spots appear, this indicates a negative result. In this case, additional tests are given, since the data obtained may indicate the presence of pathologies and initial inflammatory processes.
A negative Schiller test indicates problems in some areas of the fundus of the cervix. These can be human papillomaviruses or cervical leukoplakia.
A negative test shows the development of erosion and precancerous or oncological diseases.
It is worth noting that after the Schiller test, the patient may develop brownish vaginal discharge over the next few days. Doctors advise not to panic, as these are the remnants of iodine-containing drugs that come out. In order not to spoil your underwear and clothes, you can use daily sanitary pads.