How to Collect Your Swab Sample

Collecting Your Sample? - We understand collecting your own samples can be daunting, and so we've provided the instructions below. Each Yoxly kit also includes detailed instructions taking you step-by-step through the process. Our users tell us that by following these instructions, collecting your samples is relatively easy and straightforward.

When Should you Collect Your Samples? - It is important your sample reaches our lab the day after you take it. Therefore, you must take your sample on the same day it can be posted (e.g. not after the post has been collected, or on a bank holiday or a weekend).

Do You Have More Questions? - If you have questions about collecting your sample, your kit, or collecting your sample, please contact us at support@yoxly.com. We're available seven days a week!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1. Wash and dry your hands

Before you start to gather your sample, it is important that you wash and dry your hands thoroughly.

Step 2. Open swab collection pack

Open the swab sample collection pack and remove the swab sample collection tube, setting it to the side (do not open yet).

Step 3. Open swab package

Partially peel open the swab package, exposing only the “stick end” of the swabs. Keep only the swab that looks like a cotton bud. Dispose of the other swab.

Step 4. Remove cotton swab from packaging

Remove the cotton swab from the swab packaging. Hold the swab by the stick end between your thumb and forefinger. Do not let the swab touch any other surface.

Step 5. Gather your sample

Carefully insert the cotton tip of the swab about 5 centimeters into the vagina. Gently rotate the swab for 30 seconds, making sure the swab is touching the walls of the vagina.

Step 6. Withdraw swab

Carefully withdraw the swab, making sure it does not touch your skin.

Step 7. Remove collection tube cap

While holding the swab (again, making sure it does not touch any other surface), remove the cap from the collection tube, keeping it upright so as not to spill its clear liquid contents.

Step 8. Remove collection tube cap

Insert the cotton end of the swab into the upright collection tube, so that it is submerged in the liquid.

Step 9. Break swab shaft

Carefully break the shaft of the swab (at the black score line around the middle of the swab) against the side of the collection tube. Do not spill the contents of the tube.

Step 10. Wash and dry your hands

Be sure to wash and dry your hands thoroughly once you have completed gathering your sample

Step 10. Seal in biohazard bag

Place the swab tube into the clear biohazard bag and seal it securely

Step 11. Return your samples

Put your samples back into the box and post it back to use using the prepaid postage envelope provided. Be sure to do this on the same day the sample was taken.