Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Cervical Swab
What is this test?
A cervical swab may be cultured to test the sensitivity of the anaerobic bacteria which may be the reason for infections in the cervical region especially endocervix. This is the area around the opening of the uterus. Cervical swab culture and sensitivity is a technique predominantly used in obstetrics and gynecology. The goal is to see if there is an anaerobic infection present in the genital region. This test is done on women and young girls who are more prone to infections. Sterile cotton or gauze is used by your healthcare provider to clean the area and a cotton swab is gently inserted about three to four inches into the endocervix and turned.
What are anaerobic bacteria?
Anaerobic bacteria are bacteria that can not survive in the presence of oxygen. Some of the examples of anaerobic bacteria are Staphylococcus, E.Coli, Clostridium, Actinomyces, Acetobacterium, etc. The growth of anaerobic bacteria causes anaerobic infections. Anaerobic infections can occur when deep tissues are injured or exposed. This can occur due to surgery or trauma, etc. The risk factors of getting an anaerobic infection are diabetes, a weak immune system, low blood flow, staph infection, open wounds, etc. The common symptoms of anaerobic infection are smelly discharge, pus-filled abscess, discoloration of the infected area, etc.
Why this test is performed?
This test may be recommended to you if you experience symptoms like vaginal discharge sometimes with an odor or a color change, itching or irritation at the vagina, selling outside the vagina, burning sensation during urination, pain or discomfort during intercourse, pelvic pain, sores or lesions on your genitalia, fever, etc. This test is also preferred in diabetic conditions because diabetic women are more prone to infections. This test may be specially performed to check if the infection is due to anaerobic bacteria or not. This test is also recommended to plan the treatment according to the type of bacteria. The test is also recommended to check the effectiveness of the treatment given.
Also known as C/S Anaerobic Cervical Swab.
Test Preparation
Inform your doctor if you are on any medications, have any allergies or underlying medical conditions before your Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Cervical Swab. Your doctor will give specific instructions depending on your condition on how to prepare for Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Cervical Swab.
For this test, your doctor may ask you to avoid douching for 24 hours before the test. Sometimes it is also recommended not to have intercourse for at least a few days prior to the test. Also, avoid having any vaginal medication prior to the test.
Understanding your test results
The normal test results may vary depending on age, health history, medical condition, etc.
If your test results show negative it means there is no growth of anaerobic bacteria.
If your test results show positive it may indicate that you may have an anaerobic bacterial infection in the cervical region.
If you get abnormal test results, consult your doctor immediately with your lab test reports.
| Gender | Age groups | Value |
| FEMALE | All age groups | The growth depends on the infecting organism. Clearing around the disc indicates organism is sensitive to antibiotic |