Swab (Penile)
A penile swab test identifies infections affecting the penile skin or urethral opening. It is used when symptoms such as discharge, sores, or irritation are present.
Turnaround time
2 days
Biomarkers count
1
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Details about Swab (Penile)
What is the Penile Swab Test?
A penile swab test involves collecting a sample from the surface of the penis or the urethral opening using a sterile swab. The sample is analysed in a laboratory to detect bacterial, viral, or fungal organisms.
This test is commonly used to identify sexually transmitted infections and other infections affecting the genital area, including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, mycoplasma, ureaplasma, herpes (when lesions are present), and candidal infections, depending on the test panel used.
Penile swab testing is particularly useful when symptoms are present, providing direct sampling from the affected area.
Why do I need a Penile Swab test?
Genital infections can cause discomfort and may lead to complications if left undetected. Some infections may be asymptomatic or cause mild symptoms, making laboratory testing essential for accurate identification.
You may need this test if you experience:
- Penile discharge
- Redness or irritation
- Sores, ulcers, or blisters
- Pain or burning during urination
- Itching or swelling
- Symptoms after unprotected sexual contact
- Recurrent genital infections
Testing helps clarify the cause of symptoms and supports appropriate medical follow-up.
Benefits of the test
- Direct sampling from the affected area
Improves detection accuracy when symptoms are present. - Identifies sexually transmitted infections
Useful for diagnosing STIs affecting the penis. - Detects asymptomatic infections
Helps identify infections even with mild symptoms. - Guides further clinical evaluation
Clear results support appropriate next steps. - Quick and minimally invasive
The swab procedure is brief and well tolerated. - Useful for recurrent symptoms
Helps investigate repeated genital issues. - Supports sexual health screening
Appropriate for symptomatic or screening contexts. - Reduces diagnostic uncertainty
Confirms infection rather than relying on symptoms alone.
Step-by-step: How we offer testing
Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)
- Choose your nearest UK clinic
- Attend your appointment
- A clinician performs the penile swab
- Sample is sent to the laboratory
- Results are issued once analysis is complete
Home or hotel visit (+£60, UK-wide)
- Book a mobile clinician
- Penile swab taken at your home or hotel
- No clinic visit required
- Sample securely transported to the laboratory
Your results explained
Negative (no infection detected)
- No pathogens identified
- UK standard: Not detected
- Suggests symptoms are not due to tested infections
Low-level detection
- Small quantities of organisms detected
- UK standard: Low positive / equivocal
- May reflect early infection or colonisation
Positive (infection detected)
- One or more pathogens identified
- UK standard: Organism reported by name
- Indicates active genital infection
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
Take control of your health with London Blood Tests
WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.