What is vulval swabbing?

Vulval swabbing is a medical procedure in which a healthcare professional collects cells from the vulva, the external female genitalia. This is typically done using a cotton-tipped swab or a small brush. The swab is then sent to a laboratory for analysis, which can help diagnose various conditions affecting the vulva, such as infections, inflammatory diseases, or cancer.

Vulval swabbing may be recommended in the following situations:

1. Diagnosis of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs):

Vulval swabbing can be used to detect sexually transmitted infections such as herpes simplex virus, human papillomavirus (HPV), chlamydia, and gonorrhea.

2. Evaluation of Vulvar Symptoms:

When women experience itching, burning, pain, or unusual discharge in the vulvar area, a swab may be taken to identify the cause, such as bacterial or fungal infections, vulvar dermatoses, or other conditions.

3. Pre-operative Screening:

Before surgical procedures involving the vulva, a swab may be taken to rule out the presence of any infections or abnormal cells.

4. Cervical Cancer Screening:

In some cases, vulval swabbing may be used as an additional method for cervical cancer screening, especially in situations where a Pap smear is challenging to obtain.

It's important for women to discuss any concerns or symptoms related to their vulvar health with their healthcare provider, who can determine if vulval swabbing or other diagnostic tests are necessary. Proper technique and precautions are taken to ensure patient comfort and safety during the procedure.