Canestest Self-Test for Vaginal Infections is a single-swab home test from Canesten. It checks your vaginal pH and shows the result as a colour change on the swab tip within 10 seconds. You read the colour together with the symptoms table on the back of the pack to understand whether your symptoms are more likely to be caused by thrush or bacterial vaginosis (BV). As thrush and BV need different treatments, testing first can help you choose the right one.

Key Features

• Helps tell thrush from BV: The test is designed to help you work out which of these two common vaginal infections you may have.
• Result in 10 seconds: The swab tip shows its result 10 seconds after sampling.
• Over 90% accurate: Canesten states that Canestest gives results that are over 90% accurate.
• Private home test: You can take the test yourself at home, without an appointment.

How does Canestest work?

Canestest measures the pH (acidity) of the vagina. A raised vaginal pH suggests you may have BV, while a normal vaginal pH suggests your symptoms are more likely to be caused by thrush. The swab tip changes colour when the pH is raised, and the symptoms table on the pack helps you interpret the result.

What is the difference between thrush and BV?

Thrush is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of yeast. It often causes vaginal itching, soreness and a thick, white discharge. BV is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria that are normally found in the vagina. It usually causes a fishy smell and a thin, greyish-white discharge. The two infections need different treatments, which is why it helps to know which one you have.

When will Canestest not give an accurate result?

The result may not be accurate if you test less than 1 day before or after your period, if you have signs of your period or any vaginal bleeding, or within 12 hours of sex or using a vaginal douche. Wait until none of these apply before testing.

Contents: 1 vaginal swab with a yellow tip that changes colour in response to vaginal pH.

Additional information: Canesten does not publish the materials used in the swab.

1. Unwrap the Canestest swab. Make sure the swab tip does not touch anything before you insert it.
2. Hold the swab by the handle and insert the yellow tip into your vagina.
3. Rotate the swab, then remove it.
4. After 10 seconds, check whether the swab tip has stayed the same colour or changed to blue or green.
5. Read your result together with the symptoms table on the back of the pack.

Please note the following before use:

• Do not test less than 1 day before or after your period, if there are signs your period has started, or if you have any vaginal bleeding, as the result may not be accurate.
• Do not test within 12 hours of sex or using a vaginal douche, as the result may not be accurate.
• If you are pregnant and think you may have a vaginal infection, see your doctor.
• Do not make any medical decision based on the result without first consulting a doctor.
• If you are confused by the result or unsure which treatment is right for you, ask your doctor.