Patent ID: 7344506

Claim:
A method for collecting cells and other biological materials, comprising: inserting a collection device into a patient's vagina wherein the collection device is comprised of: a substantially porous distal end portion configured for collecting cells; a proximal end portion having a pump coupled thereto; and an elongated middle portion having a lumen in fluid connection with said distal and proximal end portions and extending therethrough; wiping the patient's cervix with the substantially porous distal end of the collection device to collect a biological sample; removing the collection device from the patient's vagina; inserting the substantially porous distal end of the collection device into a specimen vial containing collection fluid; drawing fluid into the lumen of the collection device through the substantially porous distal tip by creating negative pressure in the lumen by an actuator; and expelling the fluid back through the lumen and out of the substantially porous distal end by releasing the negative pressure; wherein expelling the fluid back through the lumen and out of the substantially porous distal tip releases the collected cells from the porous distal tip and into the collection fluid.