Description

Low Vaginal Swab

A low vaginal swab test which can be undertaken in our clinic or at home to test for infections such as candida (thrush), bacterial vaginosis (BV) or a sexually transmitted infection (STI) which may present with a vaginal discharge.

(Note – Group B Strep Screening uses a special Enriched Culture Medium and a routine vaginal swab test is not appropriate)

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Patient Guide: How to Perform a Low Vaginal Swab

Performing a low vaginal swab at home can be a straightforward process if you follow the steps carefully. This guide will help you through the procedure with a focus on cleanliness to reduce the risk of contamination.

 Preparation

1. Gather Your Supplies

• Vaginal swab kit (provided by your healthcare provider)
• Clean towel
• Soap
• Warm water

2. Wash Your Hands

• Wet your hands with clean, running water.
• Apply soap and lather well.
• Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Don’t forget the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
• Rinse your hands thoroughly under clean, running water.
• Dry your hands using a clean towel.

3.  Shower or Wash Your Genital Area

• Taking a shower before performing the swab can help reduce the risk of skin contamination.
• If a shower is not possible, wash your genital area with soap and warm water.
• Wash your genital area gently with soap and warm water.
• Rinse thoroughly to ensure all soap is removed. Pat the area dry with a clean towel.

 

Performing the Swab

4. Find a Comfortable Position

Choose a comfortable and private location. You can stand with one foot on a raised surface (like a toilet seat or stool) or sit on the edge of a clean chair.

• Open the Swab Kit
• Open the swab kit package carefully.
• Avoid touching the tip of the swab to any surface to prevent contamination.

 

• Part the Labia
• Use one hand to gently part the labia (the outer folds of skin around the vaginal opening).
• This will help expose the vaginal opening and reduce the risk of skin contamination.

 

• Insert the Swab
• With your other hand, gently insert the swab into the vaginal opening.
• Rotate the swab for 10-15 seconds to collect the sample.

 

• Remove and Package the Swab
• Carefully remove the swab from the vaginal opening.
• Place the swab back into its packaging as instructed by your healthcare provider.

 

 After the Swab

5. Wash Your Hands Again. Repeat the handwashing steps outlined earlier to ensure your hands are clean.

 

6. Label and Store the Swab

• Label the swab with your name, date, and any other required information.
• Store the swab as instructed by your healthcare provider, usually in a clean, dry place until you can return it to the clinic or lab.
• Return the sample with the completed request form on the same day or next day with request form to the laboratory or clinic in the prepaid pre-addressed pack.

 

Follow Up

• Contact your healthcare provider (Innermost Healthcare 0345 2303386 or email office@innermosthealthcare.com) to let them know your swab has been posted or if you have any other questions.
• Results will be emailed within about 3 working days after swab has arrived in the lab