1. Consultation
A private GP appointment to understand your symptoms and history, and to confirm the test is right for you. Same-day and next-day slots are often available.
Vaginal Microbiome
Vaginal microbiome testing in Preston
Understand your intimate health — properly explained. A discreet, self-collected swab maps the balance of bacteria and yeast in your vaginal flora, screening for the organisms behind bacterial vaginosis (BV) and thrush. Every test includes a private GP consultation and a clinician-led results review.
From £249 · Results typically within 2–3 weeks · Self-collected at home or in clinic
Included as standard
A private GP consultation, your laboratory analysis, and a follow-up to talk through what your results mean and what to do next — the same joined-up care we bring to every Northwest Health service.
When this test helps
Recurrent intimate-health symptoms are common, frustrating, and too often dismissed. A microbiome analysis gives you and your GP a clear, objective picture of what's actually going on — beyond a simple pH strip or a single swab.
It's worth considering if you have:
- Recurrent or persistent symptoms — unusual discharge, odour, itching or irritation
- A history of bacterial vaginosis or thrush that keeps returning
- Symptoms that haven't settled with over-the-counter treatments
- Plans to conceive, and want to understand your flora beforehand
- A simple wish to establish a clear baseline of your vaginal health
Good to know
This is a wellness and screening test — not a diagnostic substitute and not a sexually transmitted infection (STI) screen. Your results come with clinician guidance, and our GPs can arrange onward testing or treatment where appropriate.
Please note: the test should not be used during menstruation, during pregnancy, or within three months of pregnancy. It is for adults aged 18 and over.
The report
What we analyse
Using next-generation DNA sequencing at a specialist European molecular-diagnostics laboratory, the test provides a detailed map of your vaginal flora.
- Vaginal secretion pH and the overall properties of your vaginal environment
- Biodiversity (diversity index) — a key marker of a healthy, lactobacilli-dominant flora
- Vaginal Type (Community State Type, CST I–V) and its associated risk profile
- Lactobacillus profile — your dominant protective species (L. crispatus, L. gasseri, L. jensenii, L. iners) and total lactobacilli
- Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) production — the protective capacity of your lactobacilli
- Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) score and the bacteria associated with BV, including Gardnerella vaginalis, Atopobium vaginae, Megasphaera, Prevotella and Mobiluncus
- Anaerobic accompanying flora
- Candida (thrush) across the seven clinically relevant yeast species
The pathway
How it works
Five steps, one team.
2. Sample collection
A sterile, single-use self-collection swab — comfortable, painless and quick. Collect discreetly at home, or in clinic if you'd prefer.
3. Laboratory analysis
Your sample is sequenced and analysed at an accredited European molecular laboratory, with results typically returned within 2–3 weeks.
4. Results review
Your GP interprets the findings in context — reassurance where all is well, or a clear, personalised plan where it isn't.
5. Treatment & review
Where treatment is needed — antibiotics, probiotics or lifestyle measures — we arrange it under one roof, with follow-up to confirm your flora has recovered.
Pricing
Simple, all-inclusive pricing
Vaginal Microbiome TestIncl. GP consultation & clinician-led results reviewfrom £249
The final price is confirmed at booking. Don't see what you need? Get in touch and we'll talk it through.
Reassurance
What's included — and what happens next
What's included
- A private GP consultation and clinician-led follow-up
- A sterile self-collection swab kit with clear instructions
- Laboratory next-generation sequencing and analysis
- A structured, easy-to-read report
- A personalised plan and onward treatment or referral where appropriate
If something's abnormal
Most findings are minor. If anything needs a closer look we contact you promptly — at no extra charge — explain what it means, arrange any onward investigation, and can liaise with your NHS GP.
Insurance
Using private medical insurance? We can provide an itemised invoice in your insurer's preferred format — please check your policy first.
Book online, call 01772 282189, or email us. Open Mon–Fri 8:30–18:00, Sat 9:00–13:00. A £25 prepayment secures your appointment and is fully deducted from your final fee.
FAQs
Common questions
Is this an STI test?
No. This test analyses the balance of your vaginal flora and screens for the bacteria and yeast linked to BV and thrush. If you need STI screening, our GPs can arrange it separately.
Will it tell me if I have an infection?
It gives a detailed picture of your microbiome and flags imbalances or organisms associated with conditions like BV and thrush. A GP uses those findings, alongside your symptoms, to reach a diagnosis and plan treatment — which is why a clinician review is included.
How is the sample collected?
With a simple, sterile self-swab that takes around five minutes. You can do this discreetly at home, or in clinic if you'd prefer support.
How long do results take?
Typically 2–3 weeks from the laboratory receiving your sample. We'll be in touch to arrange your results review.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book directly. With your consent, we'll also send a written outcome to your own NHS GP.
Begin with a conversation
Book a GP consultation and we'll build the right pathway around you — discreet, joined-up care from one trusted team in Bamber Bridge, Preston.