In fact douching may even cause vaginitis. A clinician will examine your vulva, vagina, and cervix. If there is vaginal discharge, a sample will be taken for microscopic examination. Rarely, laboratory tests are necessary. The exact cause must be known in order to treat vaginitis.
Different causes require different treatments.
And sometimes there is more than one cause. Don't douche for at least 24 hours before your appointment. Douching washes away the discharge and may make the tests less accurate. Don't use a deodorant on your vulva. It may mask odors that are important symptoms.