2023-11-06 18:56:00
Many women are embarrassed to go to the doctor because of sexually transmitted diseases (STIs). The health startup Daye has now found a solution to this problem: it is bringing a tampon onto the market that can detect STIs.
According to the Guardian, this tampon replaces the traditional swab. A PCR test can detect chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomonas, mycoplasma and ureaplasma.
The goal of this screening kit is to speed up diagnosis and treatment. It is aimed particularly at groups of patients who are ashamed of visiting a doctor.
The tampon is sent to a laboratory for testing and the results are returned within five working days. The applicator allows the user to reach her cervix without a gynecological speculum.
Dr. Amira Bhaiji, an internal medicine doctor, called the test a perfect solution “for increased accuracy of STI testing.” It would also “give users back their personal responsibility,” which historically has often been a “very personal struggle.”
However, according to the Guardian, epidemiologist Emma Harding-Esch expressed concerns regarding some forms of home testing. This might lead to overtreatment, which might have negative consequences in particular on antibiotic resistance. This might be particularly the case with urea and mycoplasmas.
These also trigger bacterial vaginosis, for example, which is not necessarily transmitted through sexual intercourse. In most cases, however, this imbalance does not require medical treatment – a healthy vagina finds the balance itself.
The tampon was subjected to extensive clinical studies, with around 600 women testing it. Valentina Milanova, founder of Daye, said: «We are also aware of concerns regarding overtreatment and antibiotic resistance […] That’s why our clinical protocol includes educational measures.”
These are intended to advise on restoring a healthy vaginal microbiome. For urea and mycoplasma, this should be considered as a first step.
According to the UK Health Security Agency, the number of people with STIs increased by 24 percent in 2022. Due to vaginal physiology, women are at greater risk than men.
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