The world’s first cervical screening tampon has been launched in the UK, allowing women to test for 14 high-risk strains of HPV in the comfort of their own home. Did you know with an ad-lite subscription to Banbury Guardian, you get 70% fewer ads while viewing the news that matters to you. Created and launched by gynaecological start-up Daye, who already have a similar tampon that can screen for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and your vaginal microbiome, the HPV test kit launched in May.
Advertisement Advertisement It aims to be more comfortable and accessible than traditional screening methods, with the hopes of increasing the rates of people coming forward to get tested for cervical cancer. Used just like a normal tampon, it most be worn for at least 20 minutes to get an accurate reading. The HPV diagnostic tampon collects more vaginal fluid than a standard swab and covers a larger surface area, making it more accurate and more comfortable than a speculum.
Results are available within five to 10 working days and once you receive them you will be offered personalised aftercare, including prescription treatments and consultations with gynae health specialists if needed. Anyone who tests positive for HPV will be referred for a pap smear within Daye’s network of NHS specialists, or could take their results to their GP to request further investigation. The HPV screening kit cos £69 and aims to offer people the opportunity to screen for cervical cancer causing infect.