The analysis showed that leukocytes in the smear were elevated. What does this mean? Causes of elevated white blood cells in a smear in women, symptoms and treatment

Before deciding what elevated white blood cells in a smear in women are, the reasons for their appearance and ways to reduce them, it is necessary to understand some medical and anatomical terms.

Leukocytes are colorless blood cells that differ in appearance and functional purpose of the human cellular blood structure. The main functional purpose of leukocytes is to protect the body from internal and external pathogenic agents. Mandatory testing of the general condition of the microflora in a woman’s body during a gynecological examination is a laboratory test, or a vaginal smear, the results of which can determine an increased number of leukocytes in the smear or, conversely, their normal number.

What does it mean that leukocytes in a smear are elevated?

The reasons for a woman’s increased number of leukocytes during laboratory testing can be very different, ranging from physiological changes in the body, for example, associated with pregnancy, and ending with diseases caused by infectious and/or viral pathogens. Here are just a few of the possible cause-and-effect factors that determine elevated white blood cells in a smear:

1. Result of bacterial infection:

chlamydia;
gonorrhea;
tuberculosis of the female genital tract;
syphilis;
inguinal granuloma;
urogenital mycoplasmosis.

2. Protozoal infection, for example, trichomoniasis caused by an infectious vaginal pathogen - Trichomonas.

3. Viral infection:

cytomegalovirus;
papillomavirus;
genital herpes.

4. Fungal infections:

actinomycetes;
candidiasis, or thrush and others.

Among other reasons that determine elevated leukocytes in a smear in women are:

bacterial vaginosis, or vaginal dysbiosis;
irritation of the reproductive system organ as a result of mechanical, thermal or chemical damage, violation of general sanitary and hygienic standards, as well as certain somatic conditions of the body, for example, diabetes, urinary tract diseases, kidney disease, hepatitis and other pathological conditions;
allergies to dosage forms for vaginal douching, lubricants, and in some cases to male sperm.

As you can see, the palette of various cause-and-effect factors that determine that leukocytes in a smear are elevated is quite extensive.

Norm of leukocytes in a smear

Vaginal microflora is determined using special laboratory testing. When deciphering the analysis for a smear, leukocytes, the norm for women is no more than 15 units, it is most convenient to use a special table, which allows you to give a more informative picture of the general state of the microflora of the female reproductive organ. For convenience, use the following notation:

C – smear from the mucous membrane of the uterine cervical canal;
V – smear taken from the mucous membrane of the female vagina;
U - a smear that determines the condition of the mucous membrane of the urethra, or urethra.

Leukocytes in a smear, normal for women (example table):

Laboratory indicator	Vagina, V	Cervix, C	Urethra, or urethra, U
Leukocytes	0-10-15	0-30	0-5-10
Epithelium	no more than 10	no more than 10	no more than 10
Candida (yeast)	No	No	No
Trichomonas	No	No	No
Gonococci	No	No	No
Key cells	No	No	No
Slime	No	moderately	No
Other flora	moderately	No	No

A lot of leukocytes in the smear, that is, exceeding the norm by 15 units, indicates the presence of inflammatory processes in the vagina associated with a violation of its microflora. This symptomatic sign needs to be further investigated through a more thorough diagnosis. A slight deviation from the norm may be observed during the premenstrual cycle. A separate category is pregnant women.

A gynecological smear is a mandatory procedure when examining the physiological state of a woman during pregnancy. It can definitely be said that in a laboratory study, leukocytes in a smear during pregnancy are determined with a significant change in their functional tasks. At this time, a woman’s immune defense is weakened, and accordingly the body’s protective reactions are reduced to a minimum, which represents a hidden threat against various infectious lesions of the body. The permissible concentration of leukocytes in a smear of a pregnant woman should not exceed 20 units.

If after a laboratory examination it is determined that there are a lot of leukocytes in the smear, what does this mean and what to do next? Depending on the physiological state of the woman, taking into account all individual characteristics and contraindications, the observing gynecologist determines the causes of this condition and selects the appropriate method of further treatment. If leukocytes are found entirely in the smear of a pregnant woman, then a special additional examination for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) will be required, which will determine the presence of infectious pathogens with maximum accuracy.

What to do and how to treat?

A gynecological vaginal smear was taken, leukocytes are elevated, what does this mean for a woman, and how to react in the future? First of all, you should not give in to panic, but put yourself in the hands of qualified specialists who will conduct an adequate diagnosis and select the appropriate treatment. There are various therapeutic approaches to address this clinical problem. At the initial stage, the general health of the woman is determined, or the duration of her pregnancy, the sensitivity and reaction of microorganisms to medications, and so on.

For thrush, the use of medical antifungal agents is effective. Preference is given to the following pharmacological combinations:

sertaconazole;
nystatin;
pimafucin and others.

If gonorrhea is diagnosed, then pharmacological antibacterial drugs are used, such as:

erythromycin;
cefixime;
ceftriaxone;
azithromycin and other drugs.

Syphilis in women is a particularly complex disease that is most dangerous during pregnancy. The main “fighters” against the disease are pharmacological agents from the penicillin group. For pregnant women, treatment of syphilis is provided by specific therapy, which takes place in several stages.

Antiviral drug combinations have proven themselves to be effective in the treatment of genital herpes.

How can traditional medicine help?

In addition to official medical treatment, traditional medicine also copes well with reducing the number of leukocytes in a smear. All of the folk treatment recipes described below can be carried out at home, in consultation with your doctor. The only limitation is the reaction of the woman’s body to a particular drug based on allergic indicators, since all folk recipes are based on the use of various medicinal herbs and herbs.

Recipe No. 1. Two tablespoons of dry chamomile are poured into 500 ml of water and brought to a boil. Vaginal douching can be started at a temperature of the herbal decoction of no more than 37ºC. This treatment method can be compared with a solution of furatsilin prescribed by a doctor as a prophylaxis. It is recommended to carry out the entire treatment procedure twice a day, morning and evening before bedtime.

Recipe No. 2. Bee honey and aloe juice are mixed in absolutely equal proportions. After moistening a cotton swab in this solution, you must then insert it into the vagina. Experience suggests that after 5-7 days of daily twice-daily treatment, the number of leukocytes upon re-examination decreases significantly.

chamomile (dry);
St. John's wort;
oak bark (pharmaceutical);
red root;
nettle.

All prepared medicinal components are taken in equal proportions, one tablespoon at a time, and poured with boiling water in an amount of 500 ml. The entire broth is cooled to a temperature acceptable to the body and the douching procedure can begin. After two weeks of daily treatment (once a day), some improvements in the state of the microflora are noticeable in laboratory testing.

Recipe No. 4. Brewed linden blossom tea will be an excellent preventive remedy. You will need one tablespoon of medicinal raw material per glass of boiling water. After straining, it is recommended to drink this tea at least 2-3 times a day.

Recipe No. 5. You can reduce the number of leukocytes with the help of oats. To do this you will need two tablespoons of unpeeled oats and two glasses of boiling water. After infusing for 15 minutes, the remedy is ready. All that remains is to strain the broth and drink ½ glass 3 times a day. The course of treatment is designed for at least 30-40 days, after which it is recommended to undergo a re-examination.

Recipe No. 6. A herbal mixture, which includes:

strawberries - 2 tablespoons;
nettle leaves – 30 g;
rose hips – 50 g;
stinging nettle leaves – 50 g.

All ingredients are crushed, poured with half a liter of boiling water, and infused for 1.5 hours. After straining, take half a glass 3 times a day. The course of treatment is 2-3 weeks.

You can increase your immunity with the help of certain foods:

natural honey;
citrus fruits (lemon, grapefruit and others);
black currants, raspberries, apples, rowan berries, cranberries, blueberries;
wheat sprouts, peppers, cabbage, tomatoes, beets.

However, it is worth warning that it is unlikely that it will be possible to reduce the number of leukocytes only with the help of folk remedies. It is worth giving preference to traditional methods of official medicine, which will provide adequate treatment, with appropriate diagnosis and the general clinical condition of the patient.

At every visit to the gynecologist during the examination, samples must be taken from the urogenital tract, regardless of whether the woman has complaints or not. The flora smear shows not only beneficial, opportunistic and pathogenic bacteria, but also leukocytes.

Often, elevated white blood cells in a smear in women indicate some kind of problem in the body, which requires finding out the cause of this condition, and, of course, treatment. It is important to remember that no amount of self-medication will help cope with the problem, and sometimes can lead to negative consequences.

Briefly about leukocytes

Leukocytes are white blood cells that protect the body from all types of harmful agents (bacteria, viruses, etc.). That is, the main function of leukocytes is to protect the body, both specific, for example, from a certain type of microorganisms, and nonspecific or general.

The concentration of leukocytes increases in areas of inflammation, where they capture and digest foreign agents. In the case of a large accumulation of pathogenic agents, white blood cells increase significantly in size and begin to break down. The process of destruction of leukocytes is accompanied by a local inflammatory reaction: swelling and hyperemia of the damaged area, an increase in local temperature.

Flora smear

A smear for flora, as already mentioned, is taken from a woman at every visit to the antenatal clinic, that is, every six months, if the patient has complaints, as well as after a long course of antibiotics, when planning a pregnancy, during gestation and after childbirth. During pregnancy, a smear for microflora (in the absence of complaints) is examined three times: upon registration, before maternity leave (30 weeks) and at 36 weeks.

Preparing for the test

In order for the results of a smear on the flora to be reliable, it is necessary to prepare in advance for the test:

exclude sexual intercourse for 1 – 2 days;
Douching is not allowed 2 days before a visit to the doctor;
the use of suppositories, tablets and creams is prohibited for at least 24 hours;
a smear is not taken during menstruation, since menstruation changes the composition of the smear;
2 – 3 hours before visiting the gynecologist, refrain from urinating;
You should wash yourself the day before your appointment with warm water without soap.

If a woman is preparing for a preventive examination, then it is advisable to schedule a visit to the gynecologist in the first days after her period or before it begins.

Procedure for collecting and examining material

In a gynecological smear, the composition of the microflora of the contents of the urethra, vagina and cervix is determined.

The material is collected using sterile disposable instruments. A smear is taken from the urethra with a bacteriological loop or a Volkmann spoon, from the vagina (posterior fornix) with a sterile gauze swab, and from the cervix with an Eyre spatula.

The following symbols are indicated on the slides:

U – smear taken from the urethra;
C – cervical smear;
V – vaginal smear.

After the glasses are dry, they are sent to the laboratory for testing. Laboratory assistants stain smears with special dyes (Gram stains), then examine them under a microscope. During the analysis, leukocytes and various opportunistic and pathogenic bacteria are counted, which are painted in different colors.

Explanation of smear analysis

Data indicated in the smear analysis:

Leukocytes

The leukocyte rate depends on the location from which the smear was taken. Their content is normally small. In the urethra, the number of leukocytes is 0 – 5 – 10, in the vagina their concentration corresponds to 0 – 10 – 15, and in the cervical canal from 0 to 30.

During pregnancy, the content of leukocytes increases slightly and can range from 15 to 20 (in the vagina) in the field of view.

Flat epithelium

Flat epithelium lines the vagina, urethra and cervical canal. In normal smears, the number of epithelial cells ranges from 5 to 10. When the epithelium disappears (0 cells in the field of view), they speak of atrophy of the mucous membrane, and in the case of an increase in epithelial cells, inflammation.

Slime

Lactobacilli or Doderlein bacilli

Normal smears are characterized by a high content of them in the vagina, while they are absent in the cervix and urethra. When the number of lactic acid bacteria decreases, they speak of.

Yeast

Fungi of the genus Candida are normally absent at all three points of smear collection, but their occasional presence in the vagina is allowed. An increase in yeast-like fungi indicates thrush.

"Key" cells

They are conglomerates of squamous epithelial cells and bacteria - gardnerella. Normally absent, the presence of such cells is a sign of gardnerellosis or bacterial vaginosis.

Leptothrix

Refers to anaerobic (living without air) gram-negative bacteria, often found in mixed infections, for example, thrush and bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis and chlamydia. If these bacteria are detected in a smear, an advanced analysis for sexually transmitted infections is indicated.

Others

Mobiluncus - also refers to anaerobic microorganisms and is present in candidiasis or bacterial vaginosis.
Trichomonas is a protozoan; normally they are absent from the smear.
Gonococci - cause a sexually transmitted disease - gonorrhea, and are therefore normally absent.
Escherichia coli— normally observed in single numbers in a vaginal smear. As the concentration of bacteria increases, bacterial vaginosis and neglect of personal hygiene are possible.
Cocci - in gynecological smears are divided into gram-positive - colored blue and gram-negative - do not stain and remain pink. Gram-positive cocci include opportunistic bacteria: streptococci, staphylococci and enterococci, which are normally found in smears in single quantities. When their concentration increases, they speak of nonspecific vaginitis (colpitis).

Degrees of vaginal smear purity

When we talk about gynecological smears, we mean not only smears taken from the cervical canal, urethra and vagina, but also a separate type of smear that determines the degree of cleanliness of the vagina. The material is collected from the walls of the vagina and dried on a separate glass. There are 4 degrees of purity, but only degrees 1 and 2 are considered normal:

1st degree - leukocytes 0 - 5

It is considered an ideal option. The number of leukocytes is small, the microflora is mainly (up to 95%) represented by lactic acid bacteria, and there are only a few epithelial cells.

2nd degree - leukocytes 5 - 10

It is also normal, but opportunistic microorganisms (cocci or single yeast fungi) are detected in small quantities in the smear. Lactobacilli predominate, leukocytes and mucus are moderate, epithelial cells are normal.

3rd degree - more than 10 (up to 50)

The content of leukocytes increases, a lot of mucus and epithelium are detected. The concentration of Doderlein bacilli decreases due to an increase in opportunistic flora.

4th degree - leukocytes completely (cannot be counted)

Against the background of a huge number of leukocytes (the term “entirely” is indicated in the description of the smear), pathogenic microorganisms (gonococci, trichomonas) are determined. Doderlein's rods are not detectable, there is a lot of mucus and epithelial cells (a consequence of the inflammatory process).

If grade 3 and 4 purity of the vaginal smear is detected, it is necessary to establish the cause of inflammation and carry out treatment.

Reasons for an increase in the content of leukocytes in a smear

If leukocytes in a smear in women are elevated, then the causes may be either diseases of the reproductive sphere or malfunctions of other internal organs and systems. Inflammation comes first among the causes of an increase in leukocytes in urogenital smears:

inflammatory process in the cervical canal or;
development of inflammation in the appendages (tubes and ovaries) or salpingoophoritis;
inflammation of the uterine mucosa – endometritis;
inflammatory process in the vagina - colpitis or vaginitis;
development of inflammation in the urethra – urethritis;
malignant tumors of the genital organs (destruction of healthy tissue is accompanied by inflammation);
intestinal and/or vaginal dysbiosis;
infections that are sexually transmitted (both sexually transmitted diseases and hidden sexually transmitted infections).

Pathogenic microorganisms are the culprits of inflammation

Why do leukocytes increase in a smear? The development of the inflammatory process involves pathogenic microorganisms that are difficult to detect in the usual way - by examining a urogenital smear, or activated representatives of opportunistic flora. To detect pathogens of latent sexually transmitted infections, they resort to a more complex examination - the PCR method (examination of blood, urine, discharge from the genital organs).

A detailed study may reveal the following in smears or blood:

mycoplasma and ureaplasma;
gonococci (see);
Koch's bacillus (the causative agent of tuberculosis);
treponema pallidum (causative agent);
Donovan bodies (causative agents of granuloma inguinale);
Trichomonas (see);
amoeba;
human papillomavirus (cause);
immunodeficiency virus;
viruses;
mushrooms of the genus Candida ();
Actinomycetes fungi.

Other causes of increased white blood cell counts

Bacterial vaginosis or vaginal dysbiosis

Under certain conditions, opportunistic flora is activated and the growth of lactic acid bacteria is suppressed:

disruptions in hormonal status (puberty or decline of reproductive function - pre- and menopause, pregnancy and spontaneous abortion, endocrine diseases);
weakening of local and general immunity (hypothermia, antibiotic therapy);
severe stress and overwork;
microtrauma of the vagina due to intense sex;
radiation treatment, chemotherapy;
use of spermicides in the form of ointments and suppositories;
oral sex;
a large number of sexual partners;
excessive adherence to the rules of intimate hygiene, passion for douching;
entrance to the vagina deformed by scars (anatomical features, pathological childbirth, surgical interventions);
imbalance of intestinal microflora (dysbacteriosis);
foreign bodies in the vagina (tampons).

Allergy

allergies to medications and herbs;
intolerance to lubricants (gels, ointments);
intolerance to partner's sperm.

Irritation of the vulva and vagina

neglect of intimate hygiene;
temperature changes (hypothermia and overheating);
mechanical injury (tight, synthetic underwear, thongs, rough sex, etc.);
chemical burns (douching with acids and other drugs);
general diseases (diabetes mellitus, pathology of the urinary system, etc.).

In addition, elevated white blood cells in urogenital smears can be observed within 24 hours after coitus or for 7 to 10 days after insertion of the intrauterine device. If the reason for the increase in the content of leukocytes in smears cannot be established, a more thorough and detailed examination should be carried out, including to identify malignant tumors of the reproductive system.

Causes of increased leukocytes in pregnant women

A slight increase in the level of leukocytes in a smear during pregnancy is considered normal. The normal content of white blood cells in vaginal smears corresponds to 15 - 20 per field of view.

Elevated leukocytes in pregnant women in a smear are explained by physiological factors:

Firstly, during the period of gestation, a restructuring of the hormonal balance occurs, progesterone and estrogens are produced in large quantities. Under the influence of estrogens, Doderlein bacilli begin to actively multiply, which create an acidic environment in the vagina and prevent the proliferation of opportunistic and pathogenic flora, but contribute to the accumulation of leukocytes.
Secondly, expectant mothers have a decreased immune system, which prevents the embryo from being rejected as a foreign body. Due to weakened immunity, pathogenic bacteria easily penetrate the vagina or a latent infection is activated, which explains the increase in leukocytes in gynecological smears (a protective reaction during inflammation).

Often a very high concentration of white blood cells is detected in smears (50 - 100 or leukocytes completely in the field of view), which is usually noted with thrush (urogenital candidiasis). In such cases, in addition to a large number of leukocytes, the smear reveals fungi of the genus Candida and mycelium in the form of white threads.

An excess of leukocytes in expectant mothers requires careful examination and appropriate treatment. The infectious process from the vagina can spread to the cervix and cervical canal, penetrate the uterine cavity, which will lead to infection of the amniotic fluid and fetus and result in miscarriage or premature birth.

Clinical manifestations

An increased level of leukocytes in secretions from the cervical and urethral canal and vagina often accompanies diseases of the female urinary and reproductive system:

frequent and painful urination is a sign or;
false urge to defecate indicates intestinal dysbiosis;
discharge with an unpleasant odor, accompanied by itching and burning, may indicate vaginitis, cervicitis or inflammation of the uterus and;
purulent, foamy discharge or curdled discharge are observed with vaginitis of a specific etiology (thrush, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis);
possible with pathology of the cervix, uterus or appendages;
in combination with an increase in leukocytes makes one think about inflammation of the appendages.

Diagnostics that determine the direction of treatment

Before you begin to deal with the increased level of white blood cells in smears, it is necessary to establish the cause of this phenomenon. It often happens that the content of leukocytes in a gynecological smear is high, although there is no activation and growth of opportunistic flora and, especially, specific pathogens. What to do in such a case?

The gynecologist will recommend taking smears again, selecting the most successful day of the menstrual cycle and recommending that you properly prepare for the tests (exclude sexual intercourse, taking medications, douching). If, when taking smears again, the leukocytes again have a high level, an extended examination is carried out:

A smear from the cervical canal and vagina onto the tank. sowing

When vaginal and cervical secretions are sown on nutrient media, colonies of pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms often grow. The pathogen is identified and its sensitivity to certain antibiotics is determined, which is necessary for further treatment.

PCR for latent sexually transmitted infections

The method is highly accurate and almost 100% detects hidden sexually transmitted infections, which may not manifest themselves clinically, but lead to irreversible consequences (infertility).

Ultrasound of the pelvic organs

In this case, preference is given to ultrasound performed with a transvaginal sensor. A possible cause of elevated white blood cells in tests, in addition to inflammation of the uterus and appendages, can be various tumor-like formations (ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids or sarcoma, uterine polyps, etc.).

Colposcopy

Examination of the cervix under multiple magnification helps to diagnose diseases that are not visible to the naked eye, but are the cause of elevated white blood cells in tests (leukoplakia, cervical dysplasia or early stage cancer).

Consultations of related specialists

Appointed after the above examination. For example, consulting an endocrinologist and prescribing appropriate therapy will help normalize the level of leukocytes in case of diabetes, thyroid pathology, or excess weight. A nephrologist will identify a disease of the urinary system (pyelonephritis, cystitis) and prescribe anti-inflammatory therapy (antibiotics, nitrofurans). The allergist will advise you to exclude irritating factors (synthetic underwear, the use of intimate sprays, deodorants and various lubricants). The neurologist will prescribe sedatives and medications to eliminate neurosis, which can also cause an increase in leukocytes.

Anti-inflammatory treatment

Anti-inflammatory treatment is prescribed only if an infection is detected. The doctor decides what to treat, depending on the test results. Anti-inflammatory therapy includes:

local treatment;
general treatment;
restoration of normal vaginal microflora.

Local treatment consists of douching:

the course is short and lasts no more than 4 – 5 days
medications (solutions of potassium permanganate, chlorhexidine, miramistin)
herbs (chamomile, sage, coltsfoot, calendula, St. John's wort). Cm. .

Candles:

at the same time, suppositories with an anti-inflammatory effect are prescribed locally (hexicon, polygynax, betadine and others, see).
if a diagnosis of urogenital candidiasis is made, it is recommended to use suppositories with an antifungal effect (clotrimazole, pimafucin, livarol, see). Suppositories are administered once or twice a day for 10 to 14 days.
when the inflammatory process is not started, treatment is limited to this.

Treatment of hidden sexually transmitted infections

If a viral infection, sexually transmitted diseases or latent sexually transmitted infections are detected, systemic antibiotic therapy or antiviral drugs are prescribed. The choice of drug depends on the etiology of colpitis and/or cervicitis.

Restoration of the world flora

The final stage of therapy is the restoration of normal vaginal microflora (increasing the content of lactic acid bacteria). For this purpose the following are appointed:

vaginal suppositories or tampons with probiotics (lactobacterin, bifidobacterin, acylact, colibacterin and others).
A high content of white blood cells in smears during pregnancy is dangerous due to premature termination of pregnancy (miscarriage or premature birth), intrauterine infection of the fetus, the development of chorioamnionitis (inflammation of the waters and placenta), rupture of the birth canal during childbirth and the development of purulent-septic diseases in the postpartum period. Therefore, expectant mothers should follow the doctor’s recommendations with special care and carry out the prescribed or treatment if the leukocyte count in the tests increases.

Question:
Is it possible to have sexual activity with elevated leukocytes in smear tests?

If a specific infection has not been identified (gonorrhea, chlamydia, genital herpes and other diseases), then having sex is not contraindicated.

Question:
Can I get pregnant if my smears show elevated white blood cells?

Yes, it is quite possible to become pregnant, but it is advisable to undergo preliminary treatment, since often a high level of leukocytes in tests indicates an inflammatory process in the genital organs.

Question:
Is it possible to reduce the content of leukocytes in tests using only traditional methods of treatment?

You should not self-medicate, including treatment only with traditional medicine, if you have a “bad” smear test result. Only a doctor can identify the cause of “bad smears” and prescribe appropriate treatment. It is impossible to reduce white blood cells in tests using traditional medicine alone, since treatment with antibiotics or antiviral drugs or therapy for concomitant diseases is often necessary.

A gynecological examination of the vaginal microflora allows us to identify possible inflammatory processes in the genital area. An ideal “clean” vaginal smear contains a single number of leukocytes and rod flora.

The number of leukocytes in a smear is up to 15 considered the norm. Exceeding this value indicates the development of pathological processes or signals a possible sexually transmitted infection.

An increased number of leukocytes is considered in conjunction with the bacterial flora of the vagina. Distinguish 2 degrees of negative smear:

The number of leukocytes is 30–40, the flora is predominantly coccal.
A large number of leukocytes, the absence of lactobacilli, various organisms are present in the microflora, Trichomonas and gonococci can be isolated.

Myself microflora smear does not reveal the main reason for the increase in leukocytes and changes in microflora, however, it indicates the presence of inflammatory diseases of the genital organs.

To diagnose possible diseases with negative smears, additional laboratory tests are prescribed - smears for bacterial culture and oncocytology, blood for the presence of hidden infectious diseases. Colposcopy is also indicated to determine the condition of the endometrium.

Causes

Any inflammatory process in the body is characterized by leukocytosis. An increased number of leukocytes in a woman’s smear indicates diseases of the reproductive system, which classified as follows:

Inflammatory diseases of the lower sections and pelvic organs: cervicitis, colpitis, vulvitis, endocervicitis, endometritis, parametritis
Viral and infectious: gonorrhea, herpes, trichomoniasis, chlamydia, syphilis, HIV and others.
Nonspecific: candidiasis, ureaplasma, mycoplasma, staphylococcus, etc.

According to their course, the disease can occur in a chronic (asymptomatic) and acute stage.

Pelvic inflammatory diseases (PID) can be a consequence of previous abortions, intrauterine contraceptives, chronic diseases (diabetes mellitus), and hormonal disorders. Chronic stress, smoking, alcohol, sleep disturbances are factors influencing the development of PID. Infectious diseases are contracted in 99% of cases through sexual contact.

During pregnancy

Due to hormonal changes, the level of leukocytes in the vaginal microflora of a pregnant woman may be slightly increased, but not more than 20 leukocytes per smear. Negative smears during pregnancy also indicate inflammatory processes in the reproductive system and require additional examination.

Most Frequent reasons for increased leukocyte levels during pregnancy - candidiasis (thrush) and cervicitis, the causes of which are: changes in hormonal levels, disruption of the usual lifestyle, stress and fatigue.

Treatment with drugs

Used for the treatment of inflammatory diseases of the genital organs following methods:

Vaginal douching with antiseptic agents: miramistin, chlorhexidine, potassium permanganate;
Antibacterial vaginal suppositories: “Genferon”, “Heksikon”, “Terzhinan”, “Viferon”;
For candidiasis, the drugs Fluconazole and Flucostat are taken orally.

Treatment of infectious diseases requires intravenous administration of antibacterial drugs: Ornidazole, Tsiprinol, Metronidazole. Local vaginal douching with antiseptics is prescribed together. Upon completion of treatment, a course of restorative therapy is carried out, aimed at the vaginal population with beneficial bacteria, using eubiotics: “Bifidumbacterin”, “Lactobacterin”, Vagilak” and others.

Important: All medications should be taken strictly as prescribed by your doctor. Self-medication with antibiotics carries a lot of side effects.

Treatment with folk remedies

A tablespoon of chamomile, calendula, and stinging nettle flowers (optional) is poured into a glass of water, brought to a boil, removed from heat and left for half an hour. Before use, decoctions should be strained through a sieve or cheesecloth.
Pour 6 cloves of chopped garlic into 1.5 liters of hot water, leave to steep overnight, and strain before use.
Pour 2 cloves of minced garlic into 2 cups of hot water, add 1.5 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, stir and strain.
For thrush: mix 1 dose of dry bifidumbacterin with a teaspoon of warm water, add 1 teaspoon of Vaseline. Soak a tampon with the resulting ointment and insert it into the vagina for 10 hours. Course of treatment: 7 – 10 days.

An increase in the level of leukocytes is a signal of the presence of inflammatory and infectious diseases, many of which may be asymptomatic. Identification of the cause and its elimination must be carried out immediately. Otherwise, a woman puts her health at great risk.

Consequences of inflammatory diseases:

Infertility;
Ectopic pregnancy;
Complications during pregnancy;
Endometriosis;
Oncology;
Menstrual irregularities;
Adhesive processes leading to infertility;
Uterine fibroids.

For the prevention and timely detection of diseases of the reproductive system, a woman should undergo a gynecological examination every 6 months.

White blood cells are cells of the human immune system that are designed to protect the body from infections.

An increased content of leukocytes in a smear can be diagnosed if more than 15 units are observed in the field of view. In this case, they say that the woman has inflammatory and infectious diseases. A large number of leukocytes in a vaginal smear indicates an inflammatory disease of the genitourinary system (bladder, kidneys or female genital organs).

What do leukocytes in a smear mean?

Since leukocytes perform a protective function for the body, they can normally be present in small quantities. However, if a woman has a bad smear, the results of which indicate increased white blood cells, then this may be the first sign of an inflammatory process in the vagina (vaginitis, bacterial vaginosis, colpitis, thrush, cervicitis, erosion, endometriosis). And the higher the number of leukocytes, the more acute the disease.

Constantly elevated leukocytes in a smear: symptoms

A persistently elevated level of leukocytes in a smear may be the result of an inflammatory disease of various etiologies, which is often accompanied by the following symptoms:

frequent and painful urination;
burning sensation in the vagina;
unpleasant odor;
disruptions of the menstrual cycle;
whitish vaginal discharge.

Why are leukocytes in a smear elevated: reasons

The following factors can provoke an increase in the number of leukocytes in a smear:

sexually transmitted infections (gonorrhea, ureaplasmosis);
staphylococcus;
coli;
oncological diseases of the female genital organs.

During pregnancy, a slight increase in leukocytes in the smear is possible, which is normal and does not require intervention from a doctor. However, throughout pregnancy, a woman must constantly monitor the level of leukocytes to exclude the presence of an inflammatory process, as this can complicate pregnancy and the successful course of childbirth.

How to lower white blood cells in a smear?

To reduce the level of leukocytes in the smear, it is necessary to conduct a course of sanitation to restore the vaginal microflora. As medicinal herbs you can use chamomile, aloe leaves, oak bark, nettle, red root, St. John's wort. It is possible to douche with a solution of chlorophyllipt. However, before using any medicinal plant, you should consult your doctor.

In addition to sanitation, you can take thermal baths with a water temperature of at least 45 degrees, since heating helps to successfully fight the inflammatory process.

The doctor may also prescribe special vaginal suppositories designed to reduce the number of leukocytes: hexicon, betadine, suppositories with pimafucin, nystatin, terzhinan, genison, polygynax.

Thus, an increased level of leukocytes in the smear indicates about the presence of a pathological inflammatory process in the vagina. However, before prescribing treatment, it is necessary to determine the causative agent of the infectious process, as a result of which an increase in leukocytes is noted in the smear. However, with any inflammatory process, the main task is to restore the microflora of the female organs.

If, when diagnosing an increase in leukocytes in a smear, anti-inflammatory treatment is not carried out, then in the future the inflammatory process may develop further and disrupt the functioning of a woman’s reproductive function (miscarriage, infertility, recurrent miscarriage).

Leukocytes (white immune blood cells) are the blood elements of the immune system. Their main task is to provide protection to the body and fight against all kinds of harmful microorganisms, bacteria, microbes and viruses.

They form in the bone marrow space and lymph nodes, but can move freely through the walls of blood vessels and move to places where there is potential danger. They exhibit antitoxic and antimicrobial effects.

So why can women have a lot of leukocytes in a gynecological smear? We’ll tell you the main reasons and treatment features in our article!

The role of cells in the body

The process of destruction of foreign and dangerous elements by leukocytes is called phagocytosis. They capture and absorb “enemies”, after which they themselves die.

What are leukocytes in a smear in women? Their main functions are:

Development of antibodies to fight external and internal “enemies”.
Normalization of metabolic processes and supply of tissues with necessary enzymes and substances.
Cleansing the body - eliminating pathogens and dead leukocytes.

Normal, why indicators may be increased

An increase in leukocytes in a smear in women is a sign of the presence of an inflammatory process in the body.

You can find out their level by taking tests:

Flora smear;
Blood analysis;
Analysis of urine.

Women are most often prescribed a smear test for flora.

This study allows you to identify diseases of the urinary canal, kidneys or bladder; makes it possible to recognize the presence of an inflammatory process in the urogenital area.

Material for research is taken:

From the vaginal wall;
From the mucous surface of the cervix;
From the mucous membrane of the urethra.

Normal indicators of the level of immune cells in a smear are:

From the vagina - no more than 10.
From the urethra – no more than 5.
From the uterine cervix - no more than 15.

During the study, it is necessary to take into account some features:

The number of white blood cells (leukocytes) increases after sexual intercourse; elevated levels last for 24 hours after the act.
An increased level is also observed during the installation of an intrauterine contraceptive device.
Microtraumas of the vaginal walls also contribute to an increase in indicators.

The main reasons for an increase in the number of leukocytes in a smear in women are:

Sexual infections transmitted directly during sexual intercourse (STIs):
Bacterial vaginosis. This disease is better known as vaginal dysbiosis. Occurs when the number of pathogenic microorganisms in the vaginal flora increases. Prerequisites for the development of the disease may be hormonal disorders, decreased local immunity, or the use of vaginal suppositories.
Allergic reaction to gels and lubricants for intimate hygiene or douching products.
Oncological diseases of the reproductive system.

Increased white immune cells in the smear indicates the presence of the following diseases:

Note: The cause of an increased level of leukocytes in a smear in women can be prolonged stressful situations or depression.

Symptoms of increase

Signs indicating an increase in white blood cell levels and the development of the inflammatory process of the urinary system are:

painful urination;
the appearance of a false urge to urinate;
discharge of an unusual nature;
pungent odor of genital discharge;
burning and itching sensation inside the genitals;
failure of the menstrual cycle;
problems conceiving a baby;
discomfort during sexual intercourse.

The manifestation of such symptoms is a reason to take a smear on the flora and check the condition of the body.

The inflammatory process can occur without pronounced symptoms, so it is important to listen to the slightest deviations.

What to do if a woman's platelet count is below normal? We will tell you about the functions of these cells in our body and the features of treating deviations.

A large number in pregnant women

During pregnancy, a smear test for flora is mandatory., both during registration and before childbirth.

Indicators within the acceptable norm are: 10 – 20 units per observation field. And an increased amount indicates the development of inflammation.

Many diseases often worsen during pregnancy., which did not show their presence in any way before conception.

There is a change in hormonal levels, immune defense decreases and often pregnant women develop thrush or candidiasis. If an elevated level of white blood cells is detected, further testing is necessary to determine the exact cause of the inflammatory or infectious process.

The causes of elevated white blood cells in a smear in women may include:

Sexually transmitted diseases (ureaplasmosis, syphilis, gonorrhea and others).
Thrush.
Vaginosis.
Colpitis.

Any inflammatory or infectious process poses a serious danger during pregnancy, so treatment is mandatory.

Doctors often prescribe the drug to strengthen local immunity:

Echinocea
Immunal
Eleutherococcus
Ginseng.

For the treatment of vaginosis the following is prescribed:

Bifidumbacterin
Lactovit
Lactofiltrum.

Leukocytes instantly react to the slightest deviations or changes in the functioning of the body. Therefore, their levels often increase for physiological reasons. These include the postpartum period.

During childbirth, a woman loses a lot of blood.

To prevent complications, immune white cells prepare in advance for such a situation and accumulate in large numbers in the uterine area.

This is precisely what is associated with the increase in the number of their indicators in a smear after childbirth.

Their number increases during the onset of labor and during the recovery period. The indicators return to normal 4-5 days after birth.

If the elevated level of immune cells lasts more than 5 days and has serious deviations from the norm, this indicates the development of complications after childbirth and the presence of inflammation in the uterine cavity, kidneys or urinary system.

In such cases, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Possible danger of exceeding

Chronic and frequent increase in the level of white blood cells in the body can lead to serious complications. Possible risks include:

The onset of infertility.
Ectopic pregnancy.
The appearance of erosion.
Manifestation of mastopathy.
Abnormalities in the functioning of the bladder or kidneys.
Ovarian dysfunction.
Formation of adhesions and fibroids.

Diagnostics and assistance from a qualified specialist

If you detect an increased level of leukocytes in a smear, you must consult a qualified doctor:

Gynecologist
Dermatovenerologist
Infectious disease specialist.

The doctor chooses the treatment method based on laboratory tests. To establish an accurate diagnosis, additional diagnostics are prescribed.

The following types of diagnostic procedures are most often prescribed:

Sowing on flora
Flora smear
ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay)
Blood antibody test
Biopsy
PCR (polymerase chain reaction)
CBC (complete blood count)
UAM (general urine analysis)
Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity.

Drug treatment

As noted, an increase in the number of white immune cells can occur due to an inflammatory or infectious disease. Treatment for inflammation or infection is varied.

Treatment of the inflammatory process is carried out according to the following scheme:

Use of antiseptics. The vagina is regularly washed with antiseptics “Miramistin”, “Chlorhexidine”, “Potassium permanganate”.
Antibacterial drugs are used. The most commonly prescribed drugs are Genferon, Pimafucin, Terzhinan, and Viferon.
Fluconazole and Flucostat are used to treat candidiasis.

Treatment of the infectious process is carried out according to the following scheme:

Intravenous use of antibacterial agents: Ornidazole, Metronidazole and Tsiprinol.
Prescription of drugs for the prevention of vaginal dysbiosis: “Bifidumbacterin”, “Laktovit” and “Lactofiltrum”.

Note: It is strictly forbidden to self-medicate using antibacterial agents. They are prescribed only by a competent doctor, taking into account the severity of the disease and the condition of the patient’s body.

What not to do

During treatment of inflammatory process in the pelvic area caution must be exercised.

It is prohibited to use antibiotics without a doctor's prescription.
Antibacterial drugs should not be used during pregnancy.
It is impossible to treat the infectious process with anti-inflammatory drugs.
It is forbidden to wash yourself with cold water.
Tampons should be replaced with regular pads.
It is prohibited to use alcohol-based douches.
The body must not be overcooled.

Find out more about tests in gynecology: deciphering a smear for flora in women, the normal level of leukocytes and for what reasons their elevated levels are possible, a specialist will tell you in this video:

An increased level of leukocytes in a smear is a reason to seriously engage in treatment. This indicator is a sign of problems in the functioning of internal organs and systems and indicates the development of infection or inflammation.

Self-medication is prohibited. If any abnormalities in the test results are detected, you should seek the help of an experienced doctor.