Genital Swab for *Vaginal* Microbiome Profiling (Qualitative)
This test examines the types and balance of microorganisms found in your vaginal area, which can help identify potential infections or imbalances in your vaginal microbiome.
["Understanding your vaginal microbiome helps manage infections and maintain vaginal health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 6567-2
- Short code
- T vaginalis Ag Genital Ql IF
- Synonyms
- T vaginalis Ag Genital Ql IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unusual discharge, itching, odor, or recurrent infections (such as bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections). It can also be used as part of routine care for women who are pregnant, sexually active, or experiencing unexplained symptoms.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll likely be asked to clean your vaginal area gently with mild soap and water before the test. A healthcare provider will collect a sample using a swab.
What the Test Involves
A healthcare provider will insert a sterile swab into your vagina to collect cells and fluids. The sample is then analyzed to identify the presence and types of bacteria, yeast, or other microorganisms.
What the Results Mean
Results are qualitative (descriptive) rather than numerical. They may show an imbalance (dysbiosis) in your vaginal microbiome, which could indicate an infection or need for further evaluation. Your provider will discuss findings with you.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Vaginal Microbiome Test
Frequently asked questions
An abnormal vaginal microbiome may be linked to infections (e.g., bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis), increased risk of complications during pregnancy, or other reproductive health concerns. Early identification helps guide treatment.
The swab sample is collected in a sterile container and sent to a lab for analysis. Results are typically available within 1–3 business days.
No, you can take showers or use vaginal products (like deodorants or douches) the day before the test, but avoid vaginal creams, oils, or spermicides on the day of collection.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy