Examining and Testing for STI's

Swabs and transport media

Swabs and transport media are important tools for diagnosing genital infections. A thin swab is used for urethral swabbing while a large tipped swab is used for the cervix. In the case of gonorrhea, a transport media recommended for gonorrhea should be used allowing for optimal recovery when onsite plating is not possible. Specimens should be protected against cold during transport.

photo reproduced with the permission of Dr. Marc Steben