Gynaecology• Updated 21 October 2026
Vaginal Swab Test
A swab from the vagina to check for infections such as thrush, bacterial vaginosis and some STIs.
Results: 1–3 days Specimen: Vaginal swab
Quick Summary
Primary Purpose
To find the cause of unusual discharge, itching or odour.
What It Measures
Yeast, bacteria and sexually transmitted infections.
Preparation
Avoid vaginal creams or douching for 48 hours before.
Overview
You can often take the swab yourself.
Results guide treatment.
What It Measures
Yeast and bacteria
Thrush, BV.
STIs
Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, trichomonas.
How It's Performed
- 01
Sample
A soft swab is gently rubbed on the area.
- 02
Lab
The swab is sent for testing.
- 03
Results
Your doctor contacts you with results.
Interpreting Results & Next Steps
Discuss with Doctor
Your doctor will explain what your result means and what happens next.
If values are High:
Positive results guide specific treatment.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Yeast Infection Tests(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Bacterial vaginosis test(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine