Vaginal Swab Test

Synonyms

Bacterial Vaginosis and Candida, NAA, NuSwab, Vaginal Swab Test

Purpose

A vaginal swab test analyzes vaginal discharge to identify infections, such as STIs and yeast infections which affect the female genital tract.

The test identifies the bacteria, fungi or parasite responsible for the infection. This helps to target the right treatment and prevent complications like pelvic inflammation.

A HVS Culture can be done together with the vaginal swab to provide a broader diagnostic picture. In essence, the HVS culture helps to identify the yeast or bacteria that may be causing discomfort or abnormal discharge.

In addition, a fungal culture can be performed with the swab to help determine if the vaginal discomfort is a result of fungal infections.

Patient Preparation

The patient must not take antibiotics for at least 3 days before the test.

Samples

Collect One Vaginal swab in an Aptima vaginal or unisex swab. Contact the swab to the lower third of the vaginal wall and rotate the swab for 10 to 30 seconds to absorb fluid, and place the swab into the transport tube immediately. Store the sample at room temperature or refrigerate (2°C to 30°C).

Reference Range

Negative/Normal

Results Turnaround

3 -4 days after receipt of samples.

Diseases / Diagnostic Indicators

A growth in vaginal swab test may be a sign of infections such as bacterial vaginosis and sexually transmitted infections (STIs)such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and trichomoniasis.

These infections have symptoms such as itching, burning, smelly vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, and irritation.

When left untreated, this infection can lead to severe complications. For instance, Bacterial Vaginosis can facilitate the transmission of STIs, including HIV, due to compromised vaginal flora.

You can refer to this study for further reading on the comparison between vaginal swabs and urine for detecting vaginal infections.