Vaginal discharge culture and sensitivity
Quick answer: This test grows bacteria or yeast from a vaginal swab and checks which medicines work against them. It is ordered for unusual discharge, itching or odour, or infections that keep coming back.
- SampleSwab
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testAvoid vaginal creams or douching before the test if your doctor agrees, and tell staff if you are on your period.
- In fertility careVaginal infections are often checked and treated before IUI, IVF embryo transfer or other fertility procedures.
How the test is done
- 1You lie on the couch with your knees bent and apart
- 2A speculum may be gently placed to see inside the vagina
- 3A sterile swab is rubbed on the vaginal wall or discharge
- 4The swab is placed in a tube and sent for culture
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Some bacteria and yeast normally live in the vagina, so your doctor will read the result with your symptoms.
If the result is outside the usual range
Growth can point to a yeast infection, group B streptococcus or other bacteria, while bacterial vaginosis is often found on a stained slide rather than culture. Many bacteria live in a healthy vagina, so results are read with symptoms.
Who usually has this test
Women with unusual discharge, itching or odour, some pregnant women, and some women before fertility procedures.
Risks and aftercare
Mild discomfort or light spotting is possible.
Names and options
Also called: high vaginal swab culture, HVS culture, vaginal swab culture
Listed by the hospital as
- CULTURE AND SENSITIVITY, VAGINAL DISCHARGE
Questions about this test
Can I have the swab during my period?
It is usually better to wait until bleeding stops, as blood can affect the result. Ask the staff if your symptoms are urgent.
Should I avoid sex or vaginal creams before the test?
It helps to avoid sex, douching and vaginal creams for a day or two before, if your doctor agrees. They can affect what grows in the lab.
Can vaginal infections affect IVF?
Some infections are treated before embryo transfer or other procedures to lower risks. Your fertility doctor will decide whether testing is needed.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.