One of the methods of molecular diagnostics often used in gynecology is a PCR-polymerase chain reaction. The essence of this method consists in a specific increase of several hundred times the DNA region of the pathogen, which helps to identify it without difficulty. The method allows you to identify hidden infections in the body of a woman.
The material for this study can serve as a variety of biological fluids. It can be sputum, blood, urine, saliva. In addition, a smear on PCR is taken from the cervical canal or from the vaginal mucosa.
When is it held?
The main indications for conducting a smear on PCR in women are:
- acute phase of STI;
- suspicion of a chronic stage of STI;
- with a serious pregnancy;
- the establishment of causes of infertility .
Often, this method is used when it is necessary to determine the resistance of this type of pathogen to antibiotics. In addition, PCR is used to determine the degree of biological purity of blood collected from donors.
Preparation
Before making a smear using the PCR method, a woman needs to be prepared. For this, it is necessary to observe certain rules for delivery of a smear on PCR. So, a month before taking the materials for the study, completely stop taking medications, as well as medical procedures.
The sampling of the material is carried out before the menstruation or even 1-4 days after their termination. On the eve, for 2-3 days, a woman should refrain from sexual intercourse, and when taking material from the urethra, - do not urinate for 2 hours before the procedure. The taking of material for viruses, as a rule, is carried out in the stage of exacerbation.
How is it conducted?
This type of study, a smear on PCR, is performed when a woman's STI is suspected, as well as HPV and during pregnancy. Before making a smear using the PCR method, the woman is trained to study, according to the scheme described above.
Sam sampling material is carried out in the laboratory. It should be noted that if blood is used for PCR, then the fence is carried out on an empty stomach, which a woman is warned about in advance.
The collected material is placed in test tubes, to which reagents are then added. The result of the study is the synthesized portion of the DNA molecule of the pathogen, on which it is identified. The procedure itself takes no more than 5 minutes, and the final result is known in 2-3 days. In accordance with the established pathogen, treatment is prescribed.