Self-swab 'tampon' could help rape victims

A self-swab 'tampon' could help rape victims retrieve DNA without having to undergo a medical examination.

The swab is designed to help victims in developing countries, refugee camps and conflict zones where forensic facilities are poor.

It has been invented by researchers at the University of Leicester and the first kits could be available for field testing in high-risk areas next year.

Project leader Dr Lisa Smith, from the University of Leicester's Department of Criminology, said:

The researchers will travel to Kenya later this year to introduce the swab to a number of stakeholders including police officers, prosecutors, NGOs and survivors of sexual violence.

It works by targeting the male Y chromosome and is designed to pick up genetic fingerprints left by men.

Genetics expert Professor Mark Jobling, another member of the University of Leicester team, added:

While the device was not expected to make much impact in the UK, it could possibly prove useful for sex workers, said Dr Smith.

• If you are a victim of sexual assault in the UK, you can get help here.