Tampons useful in testing for STDs

2000-10-11 18:57:07 EDT
TORONTO - Tampons can be used in testing for some sexually transmitted diseases, scientists report. They point out that a technique being evaluated in Africa has proven to be more sensitive than the more traditional swab method.

Vaginal fluids absorbed by tampons can later be tested for a number of STDs, including chlamydia and gonorrhea, according to a statement prepared by the American Society for Microbiology (ASM).

Dr. Patrick D. J. Sturm, of the University of Natal in South Africa, and colleagues tested the use of tampons for STD screening in 1,030 women who had no relevant symptoms. The method proved to be effective at identifying women infected with Trichomonas vaginalis, Dr. Sturm reported at a recent meeting sponsored by the ASM. Tampon testing detected 247 cases of trichomoniasis while the more traditional swab method detected 191 cases.

The researchers point out that diagnostic use of tampons would allow women to take STD screening tests at home and avoid the embarrassment of going to a clinic.

-Westport Newsroom 203 319 2700
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