What is vulval swabbing?

Vulval swabbing is a medical procedure used to collect samples from the vulva, which is the external part of the female genitalia. This procedure is often performed to diagnose infections, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or to investigate other conditions affecting vulval health. The swab is typically taken using a sterile cotton swab and can be analyzed in a laboratory for the presence of pathogens or abnormalities. It is a relatively simple and quick procedure that can provide important information for healthcare providers.