Understanding your vaginal swab results Te mārama ki ō hua whakamātaunga miri ā-tara
Vaginal swabs are taken to test for infections. You may have a vaginal swab if you have an abnormal vaginal discharge, discomfort or itch. You may also have one as part of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) check-up. You may be able to take the swab yourself.
Terms used for vaginal swab results
Normal vaginal flora
This means there were no signs of infections from your swab.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV)
This means that some of your normal vaginal bugs (bacteria) have grown more than others. This can cause vaginal discharge. Bacterial vaginosis is not sexually transmitted.
Candidiasis
This is commonly called thrush. Candidiasis can cause vaginal discharge and itch. It is not sexually transmitted.
Chlamydia positive
This means that you have chlamydia. Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection that may not cause any symptoms.
Neisseria gonorrhoea positive
This means that you have gonorrhoea. Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection that may not cause any symptoms.
Trichomonas vaginalis (TV)
Trichomonas is a sexually transmitted infection. It can cause vaginal discharge and discomfort.
After your vaginal swab result
If you have a swab result that shows an infection, discuss treatment with your healthcare provider.
If your result is normal but you have ongoing symptoms, see your healthcare provider.