What is the definition or description of: cervical culture?

Test for infection.: Cervical culture is a test used to diagnose infections of a woman's genital tract. During a pelvic exam, a sample of mucus and cells from the cervix, or the opening of the uterus, is taken. These samples are plated to detect growth of pathogenic organisms. The test used in cases of vaginitis, pelvic pain, unusual vaginal discharge, prior to delivery, or other signs of infection.

Growth: Cervical cultures are performed by swabbing the secretion or discharge on the cervix or vaginal and allow it to be grown in culture. Yeast is one of the infectious agents that can cause an infection in the vagina (there are many others). This is one of the most common causes of infection, and candida is the most common species. However, bacteria and viruses are also tested for in a cervical cultur.