What is the Vulval Swab Test?

A vulval swab test involves collecting a sample from the external genital area (vulva) using a sterile swab. The sample is analysed in a laboratory to identify bacterial, fungal, or other infectious organisms affecting the skin and surrounding tissue.

This test is commonly used to detect conditions such as candidiasis (thrush), bacterial infections, inflammatory-related infections, and organisms contributing to vulval irritation or recurrent symptoms. It focuses on the external genital area rather than the vagina or cervix.

Vulval swab testing is particularly useful when symptoms are localised to the vulva and require precise identification of the cause.

Why do I need a Vulval Swab test?

Vulval symptoms can be caused by infections, skin conditions, or irritation, many of which present with similar signs. Laboratory testing helps distinguish infectious causes from non-infectious conditions.

You may need this test if you experience:

• Vulval itching or burning
• Redness or swelling of the vulva
• Pain or tenderness
• Skin irritation or soreness
• Recurrent thrush-like symptoms
• Discharge affecting the external genital area
• Symptoms not improving with initial care

Testing supports accurate diagnosis and appropriate clinical follow-up.

Benefits of the test

1. Targeted external genital testing
   Samples the vulval skin directly where symptoms occur.
2. Identifies fungal and bacterial infections
   Helps detect common causes such as Candida and bacterial pathogens.
3. Differentiates infection from skin conditions
   Supports distinction between infectious and inflammatory causes.
4. Useful for recurrent symptoms
   Helps investigate repeated or persistent vulval issues.
5. Quick and minimally invasive
   The swab procedure is brief and generally well tolerated.
6. Supports symptom clarification
   Helps explain itching, soreness, or irritation.
7. Guides further medical evaluation
   Clear results support appropriate next steps.
8. Reduces diagnostic uncertainty
   Provides laboratory confirmation rather than assumption.

Step-by-step: How we offer testing

Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)

• Choose your nearest UK clinic
• Attend your appointment
• A clinician performs the vulval 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
• Vulval 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 clinically significant organisms identified
• UK standard: Not detected / no growth
• Suggests symptoms may be non-infectious

Low-level growth / colonisation

• Small quantities of organisms detected
• UK standard: Low growth / commensal flora
• May represent normal skin organisms

Positive (infection detected)

• Pathogenic organism identified
• UK standard: Organism reported by name
• Indicates active vulval infection