We use cookies to make this site work. We'd also like to set optional cookies so we can understand how the site is used and improve it. We will not set optional cookies unless you accept them. You can change your choice at any time from the Cookie settings link in the footer.
Strictly necessary cookies
These cookies are required for the site to work. They store your cookie preferences and keep your session secure. They are exempt from consent under PECR Regulation 6(4) because they are essential to deliver the service you have requested.
Optional cookies
Optional cookies help us understand how the site is used and provide additional features such as analytics, accessibility tools and translation. We will only set them if you accept.
Chlamydia Swab
Instructions for your do-it-yourself vaginal swabs
It is a good idea to read these instructions through before taking your swab.
Use the images and notes in the 13 steps below to help you to successfully take a vaginal swab.
Following discussion with your doctor you should have picked up 1 or 2 vaginal swabs. Each swab has a sample bag, a form, and a small rectangular label with a bar code on sticky-back paper. Do not mix up the samples/bags/forms/labels.
This guide is for a Chlamydia Swab (the sample pot has an orange label, the swab has a pink stick).These swabs are used to test for chlamydia and gonorrhoea.
Step 1: Pack
This is what the pack looks like.
Prepare yourself to take the swab(s). Ideally you need a clean, flat surface on which to place the parts of the pack. This is important as you must not spill the fluid in the sample pot.
Step 2: Peel Open Pack
Carefully peel open the outer packaging so you can reach the sample pot and swab packet inside.
Step 3: Contents
The contents of pack... a sample pot and a swab packet.
Step 4: Open Sample Pot
When ready, unscrew the sample pot lid. Don't lose this, you will need it later.
Step 5: Stand Pot Up
Carefully stand up the pot on a clean, flat surface. Make sure you don't knock it over or spill the fluid in the pot.
Step 6: Open Swab Packet
Carefully peel open the swab packet just enough to reach the end of the pink stick.
Step 7: Remove Swab
Hold the swab by the end of the pink stick, taking care not to touch the cotton bud end.
Remove the swab from the packet.
Step 8: Take Swab
Insert the cotton bud end of swab about 6 cm into your vagina and rotate it for 10 seconds.
Step 9: Place Swab in Pot
Remove and put the swab all the way into the sample pot, taking care not to spill the contents.
Step 10: Bend Stick
Hold the pot in one hand and bend the pink stick against the rim.
Step 11: Snap Stick
Bend until the pink stick snaps (it is designed to snap). The swab should now fit inside the pot.
Discard the snapped off end of the stick.
Step 12: Close and Label
Screw the lid firmly on. After washing your hands, carefully stick on the correct label, lengthways around the pot. Try not to wrinkle the bar code
Step 13: Pack Up Your Sample
Before moving on to take any other swabs, make sure you have stuck the label to the swab you have just taken.
Put it in the bag with the correct form and seal the bag so that you do not muddle up your swabs and forms.
Do you have another swab?
If you have a charcoal swab test (with a black lid), please follow this link to the correct guide