# How to Do My Own Self-Swab

1. Remove tube cap and discard.
2. Insert the swab into the vagina 3-5 cm past the introitus and rotate gently for 10-30 seconds, touching the vaginal walls, to collect the specimen
3. Place the swab into the tube and press firmly to close.

![](https://2910776563-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-Mb-KH65nQSw7KPF2K73%2F-MktoFJoMG92zqQITXgn%2F-MktqJ4W8ELHEiODYW2e%2FScreen%20Shot%202021-09-30%20at%2011.15.08%20PM.png?alt=media\&token=8ad3dbf8-3b95-4a1d-a5f9-3cce6837ff9c)

For additional information, please visit <https://www.hey.nhs.uk/pathology/departmentofinfection/virology/vaginal-swabs/> for a diagram.