Clinical Overview: The High Vaginal Swab

A High Vaginal Swab (HVS) is a specific clinical procedure used to collect a sample of secretions from the posterior fornix and upper vaginal walls to investigate the presence of abnormal micro-organisms. Unlike a standard low vaginal swab, the HVS is designed to reach the area near the cervix, providing a more comprehensive overview of the vaginal environment. The sample is processed at our accredited UK laboratory, where it undergoes culture and sensitivity testing to identify specific pathogens such as yeast (Thrush), Gardnerella (Bacterial Vaginosis), or Group B Streptococcus.

This test is a fundamental part of the gynaecological health services provided by London Blood Tests. It allows our clinicians to distinguish between various types of infections that may present with similar symptoms. By identifying the exact cause of discomfort, healthcare providers can prescribe the most effective antibiotic or antifungal treatment, preventing the misuse of medications and ensuring a faster recovery. Our laboratory uses advanced microbiological techniques to ensure that even low-level infections are detected with high precision.

Diagnostic Necessity: Why This Test is Essential

Maintaining a healthy vaginal flora is essential for overall well-being, but this delicate balance is frequently disrupted by hormonal changes, sexual activity, or the use of certain hygiene products. If you are experiencing persistent or unusual symptoms, a High Vaginal Swab is necessary to determine if the cause is an overgrowth of naturally occurring bacteria or an external infection. Leaving such conditions untreated can lead to prolonged discomfort, pelvic inflammatory disease, or complications during pregnancy.

Clients often choose this test at London Blood Tests when over-the-counter treatments have failed to resolve their symptoms or when they require a definitive diagnosis for peace of mind. It is also an important screening tool for individuals planning a pregnancy or those who have recurring bouts of infection. By choosing a professional swab test, you ensure that you are not just treating symptoms, but addressing the root cause of the issue with clinical accuracy and expert oversight.

Symptoms that may indicate a need for testing include:

• Unusual or malodorous vaginal discharge (e.g., "fishy" or "cheesy")
• Persistent itching or irritation in the vaginal area
• Redness, swelling, or soreness of the vulva
• Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia)
• Unexplained pelvic pain or a dull ache in the lower abdomen
• Burning sensations during urination (dysuria)
• Spotting or bleeding between menstrual periods
• Recurring infections that return shortly after treatment

Key Clinical Benefits of Testing

• Accurate Diagnosis: Precisely identifies the specific pathogen causing your symptoms, whether it is bacterial or fungal.
• Targeted Treatment: Allows your doctor to prescribe the exact medication needed, reducing the risk of antibiotic resistance.
• Comprehensive Screening: Reaches the upper vaginal tract to provide a more thorough analysis than standard external swabs.
• Prevention of Complications: Early detection helps prevent infections from spreading to the uterus or fallopian tubes.
• Peace of Mind: Provides a clear clinical answer for persistent symptoms, removing the guesswork from your health.
• Fast Turnaround Time: Our efficient UK laboratory network ensures you receive your results within 2 to 4 working days.
• Convenience and Choice: Choose between a professional clinic visit or the privacy of a home visit.
• Expert Oversight: All samples are processed in accredited facilities using the latest microbiological standards.

Simple Step-by-Step Testing Process

At London Blood Tests, we offer two kinds of testing to suit your schedule and preference. You can choose your nearest UK clinic from our network of over 185 locations; you simply come into the clinic where a doctor or clinician takes the sample, and you then wait for your results. This in-clinic service carries an extra fee of £35.

Alternatively, you can pay £60 extra for our premium mobile service. In this case, a professional phlebotomist comes to your location—be it your home or a hotel—to take the sample. This allows you to stay in the comfort of your own environment without the need to travel. Both of these services are available UK-wide, ensuring expert care wherever you are located.

Understanding Your Laboratory Findings

Your High Vaginal Swab results are interpreted based on the Hay/Ison criteria, which categorise the balance of bacteria and the presence of pathogens.

Low Levels of Normal Flora (Grade 2 or 3)

In microbiological testing, "low levels" often refers to the absence or scanty growth of the healthy bacteria that should normally be present, such as Lactobacillus. If your results show a lack of these protective organisms (Nugent score of 7-10), it confirms an imbalance. This is often accompanied by a vaginal pH higher than 4.5, indicating Bacterial Vaginosis.

• UK Standard Value: Nugent Score 7–10 or Hay/Ison Grade 3.

Normal Microbiome Levels (Grade 1)

A normal result indicates that the laboratory found a healthy balance of micro-organisms typical of a healthy vaginal environment. This is dominated by Lactobacillus morphotypes, which maintain an acidic environment (pH < 4.5) to ward off pathogens. No significant harmful bacteria or yeast overgrowth was isolated.

• UK Standard Value: Nugent Score 0–3 or Hay/Ison Grade 1 (pH < 4.5).

High Levels of Pathogens (Infection Confirmed)

"High levels" in a swab report signify a "Heavy Growth" of a specific pathogen. This confirms an active infection, such as Thrush (Candida) or Gardnerella vaginalis, which usually requires clinical treatment. Identifying a heavy growth of a particular organism allows for the most effective targeted therapy.

• UK Standard Value: Reported qualitatively as "Heavy Growth" (e.g., Candida albicans or Group B Strep).