Accuracy of self-collected versus healthcare worker collected specimens for diagnosing sexually transmitted infections in females: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis

This systematic review examines the diagnostic accuracy of self-collected specimens compared to healthcare worker-collected specimens for the detection of various sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in females. Following a comprehensive search of multiple electronic databases, eligible studies were screened and assessed for quality using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 (QUADAS-2) tool. The review included studies on Chlamydia trachomatis, human papillomavirus, Mycoplasma genitalium, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Trichomonas vaginalis, while no eligible studies on syphilis were identified. Findings from the included studies suggest that self-collected specimens demonstrate comparable diagnostic accuracy to healthcare worker-collected specimens across most STIs. These results highlight the potential of self-collection methods to improve accessibility and efficiency in diagnostic testing, thereby supporting broader public health efforts. The review also underscores the need for further research in larger and more diverse populations to confirm these findings and optimize implementation strategies.