Information regarding sample taking for women

Sample taking for different microbiological analyses is an important part of both screenings and the thorough examination of a given problem. The reason behind many symptoms, such as vaginal discharge, burning urination or itching, can be many kinds of infections. These cannot be identified by solely relying on the symptoms, therefore laboratory examinations are required.

If these examinations confirm a fungal or bacterial infection, the responsiveness of the pathogen to medication is also analyzed. This enables the most effective, directed treatment with medication.

An exact diagnosis is only possible from a sample taken according to the rules of preparation. Therefore, it is essential that you also keep in mind the following requirements. 

Urine examination

Urine analysis is an important part of examinations regarding the reason of inflammations and infections of the urinary tract. Depending on which area is affected by the symptoms, the urine sample taking might be done in two ways:

• In the case of a pathogen in the urethra (the tube leading out of the bladder): we need the first 30 ml of the urine, therefore the aseptic container we give you must be held under the urine immediately in the beginning of urination
• If infection of the bladder or an upper part is suspected: we need urine sample from the middle of the flow. In this case, the beginning of the urination needs to be done in the toilet, then into the aseptic container, and finally into the toilet again. The flow does not need to be interrupted, the container can be placed correctly during the process.

Vaginal sample taking

Examination of vaginal and cervical fluids is not possible during menstruation. Please consider the expected time of your monthly cycle when booking an appointment.

If your symptoms change in intensity during the menstruation cycle, then the sample taking should take place during the days with the most complaints, to enhance the chance of identifying the problem.

The following requirements are essential in preparation:

• Two weeks before the tests, you should not use antibiotics, intim-douche, and antifungals
• On the day of the test and the day before, you should not put any creams on the genital area

If you cannot fulfill these requirements, the results of the tests might not be accurate. 

Sample taking from the genital or rectal area

In the case of infection or inflammation of the skin around the genital or rectal area, it is important to identify the pathogen. Depending on the symptoms, this is either done using a swab, or with a small brush from the surface of the skin. 

Blood sample

The identification of certain pathogens require a blood sample, but it is not a prerequisite to be on an empty stomach for this.

If a sexually transmitted disease is identified, the examination and treatment of the sexual partner is also necessary. Couples can also book appointments to our clinic.