Scientists have created diagnostic threads that visibly change to a bright pink hue when exposed to Candida albicans. When included in sanitary products, this technology may give women a simple, private way to spot vaginal yeast infections early.1
Candida albicans is a common yeast that can lead to irritating and painful infections in the urinary and vaginal tracts.
The Mayo Clinic reports that roughly three in four women will experience vulvovaginal candidiasis at some point in their lives.
While those in well-resourced regions typically receive prompt diagnosis and treatment via a simple swab and antifungal therapy, for women without reliable access to medical care, these infections can disrupt daily life and place a heavy social and financial strain on their well-being.
The researchers started with standard multifilament cotton thread sourced from a craft store. To enhance its absorbency, they first treated the material with a heptane solution to strip away waxes and binders used in manufacturing.
Next, they coated the thread with L-proline β-naphthylamide (PRO), a chemical compound that acts as a substrate for an enzyme produced by Candida albicans. These prepared threads were then embedded into the inner layers of sanitary napkins and tampons.
When exposed to simulated vaginal fluid containing C. albicans and a detection solution, the treated areas turned bright pink in just 10 minutes—a dramatic improvement over standard testing methods that can take up to three days.
By embedding diagnostic tools into menstrual hygiene products, researchers are opening new pathways to care for women with limited access to medical resources. With a projected cost of under 30 cents per item, this innovation could close critical gaps in diagnostic equity across low-income and rural communities.
Sources:
- ScienceDaily. “Tampons, Sanitary Napkins Could Diagnose Yeast Infections with Color‑Changing Threads.” ScienceDaily, 19 May 2021, www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/05/210519120903.htm.
