Bacterial Culture (Urogenital Swab)

Testing Laboratory

Auckland Te Toka Tumai | Auckland Hospital

Department

Microbiology

Delphic Registration Code (Alpha Code)

UGS

Test Code (Numeric Code)

2288

Laboratory Handling

Sample Stability

24 Hours

Synonyms

Genital Culture
Group B Streptococcus screen
Sexually transmitted infection
Sexually transmitted disease
Thrush

Turnaround Time

48 hours

Specimen Type

  • Swab - see Additional Information

Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred
  • Swab - Bacterial

Paediatric Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred
  • N/A

Additional Specimen Information

Females: collect a high vaginal swab in transport media for yeast, bacterial vaginosis (BV) and other pathogens. If culture for N.gonorrhoeae is required, collect an endocervical swab.

Males: collect a urethral swab for yeast and other pathogens.

Group B streptococcus screen
Collect one swab sampling from the lower vagina and from the rectum. Both sites must be sampled for adequate screening.
Specimens should be collected at 35 - 37 weeks gestation. Please indicate on the request form that the sample is for a Group B Screen.

Note: if Chlamydia/Gonorrhoea/Trichomonas testing is required, refer to Chlamydia/Gonorrhoea/Trichomonas Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT). These tests require an Aptima swab.

Last updated: 31/03/2026