Vaginitis/BV Profile using Culture & PCR Swab Test

Uses the supplied vaginal swabs to test for Candida by culture and Gardnerella vaginalis and Trichomonas vaginalis by PCR. These findings need interpretation with symptoms because detection does not always establish the cause of vaginitis.

At a glance

• Sample: Aptima multisite swab and Blue gel Amies swab
• Collection: Self-collected sample using the supplied kit
• Estimated turnaround: 3-5 days from laboratory receipt of a usable sample

What this test measures

Candida species by culture

Yeasts that can be associated with vulvovaginal candidiasis; detection requires symptom context. An in-range or out-of-range result is not a diagnosis by itself; clinicians interpret it using the laboratory range, symptoms, medical history and related tests.

Gardnerella vaginalis by PCR

A bacterium associated with bacterial-vaginosis patterns; detection alone does not prove it is causing symptoms. A detected result needs interpretation for the sampled site, symptoms and possible colonisation or confirmatory testing; a non-detected result can be unreliable if testing was too early or the wrong site was sampled.

Trichomonas vaginalis by PCR

A sexually transmitted parasite. A detected result needs interpretation for the sampled site, symptoms and possible colonisation or confirmatory testing; a non-detected result can be unreliable if testing was too early or the wrong site was sampled.

How clinicians use this test

Clinicians use Candida species by culture, Gardnerella vaginalis by PCR and Trichomonas vaginalis by PCR to look for the listed infection, exposure or resistance markers at the sampled sites. Results may support diagnosis, but window periods, site selection and confirmatory testing remain important.

Is this the right test for you?

Adults seeking testing for the listed infection(s) and sampled site(s), particularly after an appropriate test window. People with symptoms or a known contact should use a sexual-health service.

Preparation and collection

Return the sample on the same day it is collected. Do not post over weekends or bank holidays.

Understanding your result

Results are usually reported as detected, not detected, reactive or non-reactive rather than simply “normal”. A reactive or detected result may need confirmation or treatment; a non-detected result does not exclude exposure during the window period or infection at a site that was not sampled.

Your results and next steps

Review positive, reactive, unexpected or persistent-symptom results with a sexual-health service. Partners and treatment should be managed using clinician advice.

Limitations

This test covers only the listed infections and sampled sites. Testing during a window period can miss infection, and reactive screening results may require confirmation.

When to get medical help

Do not wait for a postal result if you have symptoms, a known contact, are pregnant with a concern, or may need time-critical HIV post-exposure prophylaxis. Contact an NHS sexual-health service. Call 999 for a life-threatening emergency.