How to do a self-collection test in three easy steps
Your health care provider will give your instructions on how to conduct the self-collection test and take the sample. They will give you a swab which looks like a long handled cotton bud. All you need to do is collect cells from any part of the vaginal wall.
You do not need to be able to insert a speculum or find your cervix.
1. Your doctor or nurse will give you a self-collection swab and provide a private space for you. The swab has one end you can hold and another for taking your sample. Twist the cap and remove the swab from the packaging. Do not touch the tip with your fingers.
2. Insert the swab into your vagina a few centimetres. The swab may have a line or mark to show you how far to insert. Gently move the swab in a circular motion for 10-30 seconds. You do not need to insert a speculum or find your cervix.
3. Remove the swab from your vagina and place it back into the packaging. Make sure nothing touches the tip that was in your vagina. Give the self-collection swab back to your doctor or nurse. The results will be sent to your doctor or nurse.
If you think you may have difficulty collecting a vaginal sample by yourself and would prefer a sample be collected without a speculum, you can also ask your healthcare provider to help you do a self- collected cervical screening test.