ZOEKEN
Self-collection kit for STD test
Purpose of test
You want to check if you have contracted an STD (Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Trichomonas vaginalis or Mycoplasma genitalium).
Following a consultation with your GP, you have been given a sampling kit. This allows you to collect a sample of the material required for testing in the comfort and privacy of your own home.
Preparation
- Wash your hands before sample collection
- Remove the tube from the packaging
Please record the following details on the label on the tube: name, date of birth and collection site. Place a sticker with barcode on each tube.
Testing process
Remove the swab from the packaging. Do not touch anything other than the swab.
Hold the swab between your thumb and index finger.
ORAL - Introduce the swab in your mouth and move from left to right against the roof of the mouth (the palate) 5 times. OR:
VAGINAL - Introduce the swab about 5 cm in your vagina. Rotate the swab for 5-10 seconds, ensuring that the swab against the vaginal wall. OR:
ANAL - Introduce the swab about 3 cm in your anus and rotate 5 times.
Remove by twisting the cap from the tube. The tube contains fluid, so keep it upright.
Insert the swab in the tube, with the cotton tip in the fluid.
Break the swab along the break line.
Dispose of the rest of the swab.
Twist the cap firmly on the tube.
Please note:
- The fluid will remain in the tube.
- If any fluid splashes onto the skin, wash with soap and water.
- If any fluid splashes into the eye, rinse with plenty of water.
- If problems persist, please consult your GP.
Packaging and Submission
- Open the envelope labelled MEDICAL POST and remove the carton and safety bag.
- Place the tube(s) in the plastic safety bag and pull the white strip off the blue tape of the safety bag and seal the bag.
- Insert the safety bag into the carton and insert the entire package in the return envelope labelled MEDICAL POST Star-shl.
- Add the request form from your GP to the return envelope labelled MEDICAL MAIL and seal the envelope.
- Deliver the envelope that same day. This can be done in 3 ways:
– Hand the envelope in at your GP (best option).
– Hand the envelope in at a Star-shl location.
– Post the envelope in a Post NL letterbox. - Store the tube in the refrigerator if you are not able to deliver the tube on the same day.
- Note: If you also need to have a blood sample collected, you will receive an extra request form for this.
- In that case you can also hand in the tubes at the blood collection facility (www.star-shl.nl/bloedafname-locatie/).
- The GP will receive the results digitally within 2 working days and will discuss them with you.