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Published on: August 22, 2012
Two methods of self-sampling compared to clinician sampling to detect reproductive tract infections in Gugulethu,
Janneke van de Wijgert1, Lydia Altini, Heidi Jones
1Population Council, New York, New York, USA. jvandewijgert@iatec.com
Objectives:
To assess the validity, feasibility, and acceptability of 2 methods of self-sampling compared to clinician sampling during a speculum examination.
Goal:
To improve screening for reproductive tract infections (RTIs) in resource-poor settings.
Study Design:
In a public clinic in Cape Town, 450 women underwent a speculum examination and were randomized to self-sample with either a tampon or vaginal swabs. All specimens were tested for the same pathogens using the same diagnostic tests.
Results:
Self-sampling resulted in satisfactory validity for N gonorrhoeae, C trachomatis, bacterial vaginosis, and Candida species (tampons and swabs) and high-risk human papillomavirus (swabs only) when tested with molecular tests or microscopy, but not for T vaginalis by culture. Self-sampling was feasible and acceptable, but some women preferred speculum examinations, which allow the clinician to view the vagina and cervix.
Conclusions:
Although self-sampling should not replace speculum examinations in all circumstances, it should be explored further as an RTI screening strategy.
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