Our clinic offers a range of vaginal swab tests for evaluation of abnormal vaginal discharge.

These range from basic swabs for the most common non-sexually transmitted vaginal infections to comprehensive panels covering all sexually transmitted vaginal infections.

You can speak to our doctors to find out which test is most appropriate for you.

• Abnormal Vaginal Odour
• Vaginal Itch
• Abnormal Vaginal Discharge
• Vaginal Lumps and Bumps
• Comprehensive STD Screening for Women
• Pap Smear
• Bacterial Vaginosis

We provide a private and discreet environment for you to discuss your medical issues with our female doctors at our DUO Galleria Branch and Robertson Branch.

There are naturally occurring bacteria in the vagina (“vaginal flora”) which help maintain an acidic environment. Any disruption to the natural balance of the vaginal environment, often due to bacteria that should not be present, can result in abnormal vaginal discharge.

Abnormal vaginal discharge may be different in colour, consistency and volume and may at times be accompanied by an unpleasant odour from the vaginal. This usually indicates the presence of a vaginal infection.

What is normal vaginal discharge?

Normal vaginal discharge is odourless and appears clear or slightly milky. It may change in consistency during the menstrual cycle, with some stringy, mucus-like discharge near ovulation, which occurs halfway through your cycle.

How do I know if my vaginal discharge is abnormal?

Abnormal coloured vaginal discharge may be yellowish, greenish or brownish. Changes in the consistency of discharge, such as the presence of thick, chalky, clumpy discharge, or copious amounts of thin, watery discharge are also abnormal.

Discharge that is accompanied by spotting (bleeding which occurs when you are not having your menses), may also be abnormal. Associated symptoms like vaginal itching, soreness or abdominal pain further indicate that something is amiss.

What are the causes of abnormal vaginal discharge?

Abnormal vaginal discharge is usually due to an underlying vaginal infection, which can either be sexually transmitted or non-sexually transmitted.

In rare cases, abnormal vaginal discharge may be due to non-infective causes such as cervical cancer.

What could my abnormal vaginal discharge indicate?

Certain vaginal infections may give rise to characteristic abnormal vaginal discharge. However, it is important to remember that multiple infections can coexist and at times, diagnosis based solely on the characteristic of the discharge may not always be reliable. Whitish, thick, clumpy or cottage cheese like discharge associated with a burning or itching sensation and/or soreness likely indicates a yeast infection.

Bacterial vaginosis may be associated with a grey, thin, watery discharge with a fishy or foul-smelling odour. see vaginal odour

Abnormal discharge which is associated with abdominal pain or fever can be a sign of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), a serious infection of the womb and fallopian tubes caused by chlamydia and gonorrhoea. If left untreated, one can become severely unwell. There is also a risk of scarring leading to infertility.

How is a high vaginal or endocervical swab test done?

This is best done when you are not having your menses.

A speculum is inserted to open up the vaginal canal and a Q-tip like swab is used to collect a small sample of discharge from high up inside the vagina near the cervix (entrance to the womb). There may be some mild discomfort during the swab test.

How is abnormal vaginal discharge treated?

The treatment of abnormal vaginal discharge is targeted at the underlying infection. Medications in the form of vaginal pessaries, oral tablets or topical gels/creams may be prescribed.

What can be done to prevent abnormal vaginal discharge?

Avoiding triggers that may disrupt the natural vaginal pH and flora – these include feminine douche washes, petroleum jelly or oils for lubrication, perfumed feminine hygiene products.

Wearing cotton underwear and reducing wearing tight-fitting clothing for prolonged periods of time will allow the genital region to stay dry as well.

The correct and consistent use of condoms during intercourse will also protect against sexually transmitted infections.