Lemos MP, et al. - In the HVTN 915 study, the feasibility of self-administered vaginal swabs for detection of HIV virions to assess exposure was evaluated. In Soweto, South Africa, 50 participants (18- to 25-year-old; sexually active HIV-seronegative women using contraception) self-administered daily vaginal swabs and answered sexual behavior questions through mobile phone for 90 days. Researchers performed clinician-administered vaginal swabs, behavioral questionnaires, HIV diagnostic testing, and counseling at 8 clinic visits. Adherence to swabbing was assessed via glycogen concentrations. The accuracy of reported condom use was assessed via Y-chromosome DNA. Virion polymerase chain reaction in swabs from 41 women who reported unprotected vaginal sex during follow-up, was done to measure HIV exposure. Outcomes revealed high adherence to daily vaginal swabbing. They noted accurate reporting of unprotected sex with daily mobile surveys. They identified HIV in self-collected vaginal swabs from an uninfected participant that indicates the possibility of measuring HIV exposure. However, lower than expected detection rate was noted.