Candida (thrush) culture in Chiswick

What the test measures

Candida is a yeast that lives harmlessly on the skin, in the mouth and gut, and in the vagina of many people. Thrush develops when it overgrows, causing itching, soreness, redness and, in vaginal thrush, a thick white discharge. Common triggers include antibiotics, pregnancy, diabetes that is not well controlled, a weakened immune system and tight or damp clothing.

For this test a swab is taken from the affected area, usually the vagina, penis, mouth or skin, and the laboratory grows any yeast present. Culture confirms whether Candida is the cause and identifies the species. Most thrush is caused by Candida albicans, but other species, such as Candida glabrata, can be less responsive to the usual antifungal treatments, which matters if thrush keeps returning.

The price includes the swab taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• You have thrush symptoms that have not cleared after treatment.
• You get thrush four or more times a year.
• You are not sure whether your symptoms are thrush or something else, such as bacterial vaginosis.
• You have diabetes or a weakened immune system and recurring yeast infections.
• Your GP or practitioner wants to identify the species before choosing treatment.

Understanding your result

Your report shows whether yeast grew and, if so, which species. Growth of Candida alongside typical symptoms supports a diagnosis of thrush. Because Candida can be present without causing problems, a positive culture without symptoms does not always need treatment. A negative result suggests your symptoms may have another cause, and your practitioner may suggest other tests, including for sexually transmitted infections.

Recurrent thrush can be linked to raised blood sugar, so your practitioner may suggest checking HbA1c. The result is a prompt for discussion, not a diagnosis.

Preparing for your test

No fasting is needed. If possible, avoid antifungal creams, pessaries or tablets for 7 days before the swab, as they can stop yeast growing in the laboratory. For a vaginal swab, book outside your period and avoid lubricants, douching and sex for 24 hours beforehand. Your practitioner will explain how the swab is taken.

To check your blood sugar, our HbA1c and diabetes tests are a useful check. If you have a new partner, our STI tests can be added. Browse every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a Candida culture in Chiswick?

The Candida (Thrush) Culture costs £99 at our Chiswick clinic. This includes the swab, accredited laboratory analysis, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

Is thrush a sexually transmitted infection?

No. Thrush is not classed as an STI, although sex can sometimes trigger symptoms. Partners usually only need treatment if they have symptoms.

Why does the species matter?

Some species respond less well to standard antifungal medicines. Knowing the species helps your GP choose a treatment more likely to work.

Can men have thrush?

Yes. It can cause redness, irritation and discharge under the foreskin, and a swab can confirm it.