About this test kit
With this test kit, you can easily and reliably collect a blood sample and a vaginal swab yourself. Just a few drops of blood from a finger prick into the provided collection tube, and the vaginal swab into the designated swab tube. Using the included return envelope, you can send the samples to the certified laboratory for analysis. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our helpdesk via the website.
Contents of the test kit
- 1 swab
- 1 swab collection tube
- 1 swab barcode sticker
- 1 blood collection tube
- 3 lancets
- 1 blood barcode sticker
- 1 return envelope
- 1 tube holder
- 2 plasters
- 2 alcohol wipes
- 1 gauze pad
- 1 manual
- 1 protective bag with absorbent pad
Is something missing? Please contact us.
Before you begin
- Make sure you are seated comfortably and relaxed during the sample collection.
- Do not take the test right after exercising.
- Do not take the test if you have a fever or acute infection (unless specifically instructed to test for that).
- Avoid taking medication or supplements shortly before the test.
- Do not take a swab during menstruation.
- Preferably, do not collect a sample on Friday or during the weekend due to longer shipping times. Send the sample on the same day it is collected whenever possible.
- Is the outside temperature below 4°C or above 25°C? Then drop off the package at a post office.
Important Information
- The test kit is for single use only.
- For collecting a blood sample and vaginal swab only.
- Intended for individuals aged 18 and over.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- The included materials are for personal use only.
- If you have difficulty with finger pricks or feel uncomfortable at the sight of blood, perform the test in the presence of someone else or consult a healthcare professional.
- Are you using blood thinners or do you have a bleeding disorder? Consult your doctor first to avoid complications.
Getting Started
- Activate the kit using the information on the inside of the box.
- Remove the swab collection tube from its packaging and place the barcode sticker labeled SWAB vertically on it.
- Also place the barcode sticker labeled SERUM vertically on the small blood collection tube.
Note
Place the barcode stickers vertically on the collection tubes.
Blood
Step 1.
- Drink plenty of water 30 minutes before the blood draw.
- Wash your hands with soap for 30 seconds, rinse thoroughly with warm water, and dry them well.
- Hold your hands against a cup of warm water for 2 minutes.
- Swing your arms alongside your body 8 to 10 times.
Step 2.
Unscrew the cap from the yellow collection tube and place the tube in the holder. Then remove the cap from the lancet. It is now ready for use.
Step 3.
Choose a puncture site, preferably the side of the tip of your middle or ring finger. Disinfect the site with the alcohol wipe before pricking, and allow the finger to dry.
Step 4.
Place the lancet on the disinfected site and press firmly until you hear a click. Ask someone for help if needed. Wipe away the first drop of blood with the gauze pad.
Step 5.
Fill the yellow collection tube up to the top line (600 µl). Stand upright and keep your hand down. Massage the finger from the palm toward the fingertip. Let the blood drip into the tube or scoop it in with the edge of the tube. Repeat steps 3–4 if not enough blood comes from this puncture site, and use the extra lancets if needed.
Step 6.
Place the cap on the collection tube and press down firmly until you hear a click. Then gently tilt the collection tube 8 to 10 times.
Vaginal swab
Step 1.
Wash your hands with soap for 30 seconds, rinse them thoroughly with warm water, and dry them well.
Step 2.
Unscrew the cap of the collection tube without touching the inside. Place the tube in the holder. Make sure the liquid remains inside the tube.
Step 3.
It’s important not to touch the cotton tip of the swab. Remove the swab from its packaging and hold it by the stem using your thumb and index finger.
Step 4.
Assume a relaxed position. Insert the swab about 4 to 5 cm into your vagina, similar to how you would insert a tampon. Gently move it back and forth along the vaginal walls and remove it after 30 seconds.
Step 5.
Place the swab into the collection tube and carefully break it at the break line.
Step 6.
Screw the cap tightly onto the collection tube to ensure it is properly sealed.
Shipping
Step 1.
Place both the sealed blood collection tube and the swab collection tube into the provided protective bag with the blue adhesive strip, which already contains the absorbent pad. Seal the protective bag tightly using the adhesive strip. Place the sealed bag into the box and close the box securely.
Step 2.
Place the box in the provided return envelope and seal it with the adhesive strip. The package fits in a mailbox. If you hand it in at a post office, do not add track & trace, as this may delay the delivery. Shipping costs have already been paid.
Step 3.
Dispose of the remaining items in the appropriate waste bin. We will notify you by email as soon as your laboratory results are available.