what does a vaginal swab test for

A vaginal swab is a medical test that involves taking a sample of vaginal discharge for analysis. The test is used to detect various infections such as candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis, and trichomonas vaginalis that affect the vagina. The swab can be used to screen for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The healthcare provider may use a cotton swab or wooden stick to collect the sample of vaginal discharge, which is then examined under a microscope, cultured, and tested for sensitivity. The test can also check the acidity of the sample, which is a sign of bacterial vaginosis. The test can be done in a healthcare providers office or with an at-home test kit. Symptoms that may require a vaginal swab test include irregular bleeding, vaginal or pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal discharge, itching, irritation, a burning sensation, or swelling in the vagina or vulva, pain during sexual intercourse, pain during urination, and mild vaginal bleeding.