High Vaginal Swab (HVS) Culture & Sensitivity Test – Accurate Infection Detection

Description

High Vaginal Swab (HVS) Culture & Sensitivity Test

The Culture Lab Test is a diagnostic tool designed to identify and analyze the presence of bacteria, fungi, or other microorganisms in a sample. This test plays a critical role in diagnosing infections, monitoring treatment effectiveness, and preventing the progression of microbial-related health conditions. With a focus on bacteriology culture, this test provides accurate and reliable results to guide appropriate medical interventions.

Why You Need This Test

The Culture Lab Test is essential for detecting and identifying infections caused by bacteria or fungi. It helps healthcare providers determine the specific microorganism responsible for an infection, enabling targeted treatment with the most effective antibiotics or antifungal medications. This test is particularly important for diagnosing conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), respiratory infections, skin infections, and wound infections. By identifying the root cause of an infection, the Culture Lab Test ensures timely and accurate treatment, reducing the risk of complications and promoting faster recovery.

Unlike guesswork or generic treatments, this test ensures:

• Accurate diagnosis of the infection source
• Targeted treatment to avoid antibiotic resistance
• Prevention of recurrent or chronic infections
• Safe management during pregnancy or fertility planning

It’s especially recommended for:

• Recurrent yeast or bacterial infections
• Unexplained vaginal discharge
• Pre-surgical screening (e.g., C-section, hysterectomy)
• Monitoring treatment response

Symptoms That Indicate This Test

You may need the Culture Lab Test if you are experiencing symptoms that suggest a bacterial or fungal infection. These symptoms include:

• Abnormal vaginal discharge (thick, white, green, or gray)
• Foul or fishy odor
• Itching, burning, or irritation in the vaginal area
• Pain or discomfort during urination or sex
• Redness, swelling, or soreness around the vulva
• Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Suspected sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, this test can help pinpoint the cause and guide appropriate treatment.

Natural Production & Microbial Imbalance

Your vagina naturally hosts a balanced microbiome dominated by Lactobacillus species, which maintain an acidic pH and prevent harmful overgrowth.

However, factors like:

• Antibiotic use
• Hormonal changes (menstruation, pregnancy, menopause)
• Poor hygiene or tight clothing
• Diabetes or weakened immunity
• Unprotected sex

…can disrupt this balance, allowing pathogenic bacteria or fungi to thrive.

The HVS test collects a swab from the upper vagina and cervix, where infections often originate, and uses bacteriology culture to grow and identify the responsible organisms.

What Happens If Untreated

Ignoring vaginal infections can lead to serious complications:

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) – increasing infertility risk
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Increased susceptibility to STIs, including HIV
• Preterm birth or low birth weight during pregnancy
• Antibiotic resistance due to repeated, ineffective treatments

Early detection through culture and sensitivity ensures the right treatment is used the first time—protecting your long-term reproductive health.

How to Prepare for the Test

To ensure accurate results:

• Avoid vaginal intercourse 24–48 hours before the test
• Do not use vaginal creams, suppositories, douches, or tampons for at least 48 hours
• Schedule the test when you are not menstruating (best 2–3 days after your period ends)
• No fasting required
• Inform your doctor about recent antibiotic or antifungal use

The swab is collected by a trained healthcare provider during a brief pelvic exam.

Test Overview

Parameter	Details
Test Name	High Vaginal Swab (HVS) Culture & Sensitivity
Sample Type	Vaginal Swab (collected from upper vagina/cervix)
Methodology	Bacteriology Culture & Sensitivity Testing
Turnaround Time (TAT)	3 Days
Detects	Bacteria (e.g.,Gardnerella,E. coli), Fungi (e.g.,Candida), and other pathogens
Reports	Organism identified + Antibiotic/Antifungal Sensitivity Profile

Don’t let vaginal infections affect your comfort, confidence, or health. The HVS Culture & Sensitivity Test gives you clear, actionable results in 10 days—so you can get the right treatment, faster.

👉 Book your HVS test today with Lab Tests Dubai and take control of your intimate health.

Category: Microbiology