What it measures
A swab from the vagina is grown in the lab to see which bacteria and yeasts are present, such as the yeast behind thrush (Candida). Where bacteria grow, the lab may also test which antibiotics act on them.
Why people test it
- Tested when there is unusual discharge, itching, soreness or odour.
- Used to identify thrush or a bacterial infection that keeps coming back.
Typical range
Reported by naming what grows, or as normal vaginal bacteria or no significant growth. Methods and wording vary between labs, and your report shows how the lab reads the result.
Finger-prick or vein?
A swab, not blood. Offered as a kit only, with a swab you take yourself and post to the lab.
A culture does not test for chlamydia or gonorrhoea, which need a separate test.