ABSTRACT

Lippman, Sheri A., Heidi E. Jones, Carla G. Luppi, Adriana A. Pinho, Maria A. M. S. Veras, and Janneke H. H. M. van de Wijgert. 2007. "Home-based self-sampling and self-testing for sexually transmitted infections: Acceptable and feasible alternatives to provider-based screening in low-income women in Sao Paulo, Brazil," Sexually Transmitted Diseases 34(7): 421–428.

Objective
The objective of this study was to determine whether home-based screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is acceptable, feasible, and increases the proportion of women screened among low-income women in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Study design
Eight hundred eighteen women were randomized to receive a clinic appointment or a kit for home-based STI self-collection and testing. All participants collected two vaginal swabs, one for polymerase chain reaction detection of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis and another for a self-conducted rapid test for trichomoniasis.

Results
Slightly more women responded to the initiative within two weeks in the home group (80%) than in the clinic group (76%) with younger women showing improved response to home-based screening. Ninety-four percent of home group participants successfully completed self-collection and self-testing on their first attempt.

Conclusions
Home-based self-collection and self-testing was acceptable, feasible, and resulted in a slightly higher response rate. Home sampling and testing provide promising alternatives to clinic-based STI screening across diverse contexts.

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