A self-sampling method to obtain large volumes of undiluted cervicovaginal secretions.
BACKGROUND
Studies of vaginal physiology and pathophysiology sometime require larger volumes of undiluted cervicovaginal secretions than can be obtained by current methods. A convenient method for self-sampling these secretions outside a clinical setting can facilitate such studies of reproductive health.


OBJECTIVE
The goal was to develop a vaginal self-sampling method for collecting large volumes of undiluted cervicovaginal secretions.


METHODS
A menstrual collection device (the Instead cup) was inserted briefly into the vagina to collect secretions that were then retrieved from the cup by centrifugation in a 50-ml conical tube.


RESULTS
All 16 women asked to perform this procedure found it feasible and acceptable. Among 27 samples, an average of 0.5 g of secretions (range, 0.1-1.5 g) was collected.


CONCLUSIONS
This is a rapid and convenient self-sampling method for obtaining relatively large volumes of undiluted cervicovaginal secretions. It should prove suitable for a wide range of assays, including those involving sexually transmitted diseases, microbicides, vaginal physiology, immunology, and pathophysiology.
Boskey
Elizabeth R
ER
Thomas C Jenkins Department of Biophysics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, USA.
Moench
Thomas R
TR
Hees
Paul S
PS
Cone
Richard A
RA
D002584:Cervix Uteri / Q000378:metabolism*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D012648:Self Care; D013048:Specimen Handling / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D014621:Vagina / Q000378:metabolism*