Cervical Swabs

Microbiological workup for infections of the cervix and vaginal flora. 

During the exam, swabs are taken to detect bacterial, fungal and sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea and trichomoniasis. Based on the results and symptoms, the appropriate therapy is determined. 

Page Overview

What are cervical swabs?

Cervical or gynaecological swabs are samples from the cervix that are examined in the laboratory by microbiological and/or molecular testing (depending on the indication) in order to detect the causes of infection. They can detect bacterial and fungal infections, parasites, an imbalance of the vaginal flora and other sexually transmitted diseases. The aim is to precisely determine the cause of the symptoms and choose a targeted treatment.

Note: Swabs are particularly useful when symptoms persist, recur, or when it is important to confirm the cause before treatment (or after it, on the doctor's recommendation).

What the swabs may include

  • A swab of the cervix as indicated
  • Swabs when sexually transmitted infections are suspected
  • A follow-up swab after treatment (when the doctor judges it necessary)
  • The option to combine them with a gynaecological examination, a Pap test and/or HPV testing (if needed)

When are cervical swabs recommended?

The most common reasons why our gynaecologists recommend taking swabs: 

Prevention and check-ups

  • Follow-up after previous positive findings (as recommended by the doctor)
  • Recurrent or persistent complaints despite previous therapy
  • Before a planned pregnancy or as part of an infertility work-up (as indicated)
  • Preventive testing after a change of partner 

Symptoms and special situations

  • Increased or altered vaginal discharge (colour, smell, consistency)
  • Itching, burning, irritation
  • Bleeding after sexual intercourse or between periods (assessment needed)
  • Suspicion of a sexually transmitted infection
Recommendation: If you have new or severe symptoms, a gynaecological examination is recommended. In many cases cervical swabs can be taken immediately, with the appointment adjusted to the menstrual cycle.

What does taking a cervical swab look like?

The procedure is short, simple  and painless. At Cito Polyclinic it is carried out by a specialist in gynaecology and obstetrics.  

1. Conversation

Your chosen gynaecologist takes a brief medical history, analyses your symptoms and determines a targeted selection of tests.

2. Clinical examination

On the gynaecological chair, with the help of a speculum, the gynaecologist examines the vagina and the cervix.

3. Taking the swab

A sample is taken with a sterile swab stick. The procedure is short, 2-3 minutes. It may be uncomfortable, but it should not be painful.

4. Plan and recommendations

The sample is sent to the laboratory. We inform you about what we are testing for, when the results are due and what comes next.

We tailor our approach to each patient - we explain what we are doing and why, without rushing, and we are available for all your questions. 
Duration of the procedure: most often a few minutes (depending on the extent of the examination and the number of swabs). The findings take 5-10 days. 

How to prepare for the examination?

No special preparation is needed for taking cervical swabs. It is advisable to prepare, before the test, all the questions you need answers to.  

  • If possible, come outside your period.
  • Avoid sexual intercourse and vaginal products (creams, pessaries, douching) 24-48 h beforehand.
  • If you are taking antibiotics or have recently taken them, tell us (an important detail for interpretation).

If you have acute symptoms, get in touch - the examination is possible even when it is not the “ideal” time in the cycle.

Frequently asked questions before taking swabs

  • Do I need to come with an empty bladder?
    An empty bladder reduces discomfort during the examination.
  • May I bring old findings?
    Yes - they are useful for comparison and making decisions.
  • What if I feel fear or discomfort?
    Tell us - we adjust the pace and explain everything step by step.
Note:If you have any further questions, our team of doctors is available for all additional enquiries.

What do you gain from this examination?

The aim of the examination is that, after the work-up, you have a clear answer about the possible cause of your complaints and a concrete plan for the next steps. 

1
A clear diagnosis of the cause
What the likely cause is and whether further work-up is needed.
2
A recommendation for further tests or treatment 
If further tests are needed, you will get an explanation of why they are recommended and when to do them. 
3
A treatment and follow-up plan 
The next steps, follow-up timeframes and treatment options - without any ambiguity.

In practice this means

  • a clear explanation of the findings and a treatment plan
  • taking swabs only when they are genuinely needed 
  • an arranged follow-up (if needed) with a clear timeframe
  • guidance on the symptoms to watch for
Discreet
Clear
Fast

Why have cervical swabs taken at Cito Polyclinic?

The difference is in the details: enough time, a calm approach and clear recommendations that you can understand and follow.

  • Enough time for questions and explanations
  • Targeted testing (without “excess” tests)
  • A discreet and careful approach during the examination 
  • Swab findings available within a few days

Want a "stress-free" experience?

Tell us your needs (first examination, fear, complaints) - we will adapt our approach.

Price of cervical swabs

The price of the cervical swab service at Cito Polyclinic is 100 €.

Note: It is important to point out that this amount covers only the analysis of the swabs, while additional tests such as a gynaecological examination or a Pap test are not included in this price. Please note that the final amount may also be lower, depending on whether your diagnostics require testing for only certain, individual bacteria. 

You can get the first available appointment straight away by phone on +385 21 457 800 or by sending a short message via the contact form.

 View the full price list

Doctors

Our team of expert physicians

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about this service

Which infections are detected by cervical swabs and how is the sample taken?

Most often HPV, Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Mycoplasma/Ureaplasma and nonspecific bacterial/saprophytic flora. The sample is taken with a sterile swab from the exocervix and endocervix.

Is a special abstinence period required before taking a swab?

Abstinence and avoidance of vaginal preparations 24–48 h before sample collection are recommended.

How long for the results and how to collect them?

Microbiological results are available within 2–7 days, molecular within 1-2 days. They can be collected electronically or at the clinic.

What if the result is positive - what is the treatment and does the partner need therapy?

Treatment is targeted to the pathogen; for sexually transmitted infections, simultaneous treatment of the partner and a follow-up swab after completion of therapy are recommended.

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