What is the Vaginal Swab test?

A Vaginal Swab test involves collecting a sample from the vaginal canal to check for infections, bacterial imbalance, or fungal overgrowth. The sample is analysed in a laboratory to identify organisms that may be causing symptoms.

This test can detect conditions such as bacterial vaginosis, vaginal candidiasis (thrush), and, when requested, certain sexually transmitted infections. It provides targeted information to explain symptoms and guide appropriate follow-up.

Vaginal swabs are a routine and reliable investigation in gynaecological and sexual health assessment.

Why do I need a Vaginal Swab test?

Vaginal symptoms are common and may have overlapping causes. Testing helps identify the exact reason for symptoms rather than relying on guesswork.

You may need this test if you experience:

• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Vaginal itching or irritation
• Unpleasant or fishy odour
• Vaginal soreness or discomfort
• Burning or pain
• Recurrent vaginal symptoms
• Symptoms not improving with over-the-counter treatment
• Routine sexual or gynaecological screening

The test helps distinguish between bacterial, fungal, and other causes of symptoms.

Benefits of the test

1. Identifies common vaginal infections
   Detects bacterial and fungal causes accurately.
2. Explains persistent or recurrent symptoms
   Useful when symptoms keep returning.
3. Targeted testing
   Focuses on the vaginal environment.
4. Simple and quick sample collection
   Swab collection is brief and well tolerated.
5. Supports accurate diagnosis
   Reduces unnecessary or inappropriate treatment.
6. Useful in sexual health screening
   Can be combined with STI testing where needed.
7. Widely used in clinical practice
   Standard gynaecological investigation.
8. Guides appropriate follow-up
   Results support further clinical assessment if required.

Step-by-step: How we offer testing

Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)

• Choose your nearest UK clinic
• Attend your appointment
• Vaginal swab collected by a clinician
• Sample sent to the laboratory
• Results are issued once analysis is complete

Home or hotel visit (+£60, UK-wide)

• Self-collection or clinician-assisted swab where appropriate
• Sample collected at home or hotel
• Sample securely transported to the laboratory

Your results explained

Normal result

• No pathogenic organisms detected
• UK standard: Normal vaginal flora
• Suggests healthy vaginal balance

Bacterial infection detected

• Overgrowth of bacteria
• UK standard: Bacterial vaginosis pattern
• Common cause of discharge and odour

Fungal infection detected

• Candida species identified
• UK standard: Positive for Candida
• Common cause of itching and irritation

Results should be interpreted alongside symptoms and clinical history.