An intra-vaginal self-administered cell collecting device and method includes
inserting a tampon-like telescoping tube intra-vaginally. The tube includes an
expandable preformed absorbent member having a textured cover. The absorbent member
also includes a retrieval member extending therefrom. The tube is manipulated to
expel the absorbent member intra-vaginally. The tube is removed and the absorbent
member is retained intra-vaginally for a period of time. The absorbent member is
retained from expanding from its preform when exposed to vaginal fluids by means
of a cover on the absorbent material. The cover also captures soughed-off cells
in the vaginal fluids. The absorbent material is retrieved manually by the retrieval member.