Abstract: Methods and devices for collecting at least two separate samples of a body fluid (e.g., blood) simultaneously. The device is introduced into a body of a living being whose blood is to be analyzed at a preexisting accessible cavity of the body which at least temporarily contains blood of the living being. The device has an interior having first and second hollow retaining compartments capable of receiving and holding the blood which is present in the cavity when the entire device is introduced into and remains wholly within the cavity. After the device is removed from the body cavity, blood is removed from the first and second hollow retaining compartments, such that the blood can be simultaneously separately collected and prepared for subsequent separate an different analyses. The first and second hollow retaining compartments are adapted to collect blood having similar characteristics. In a preferred embodiment, the first and second retaining compartments each contain an absorbent medium such as a sponge.

Abstract: Cultures of microorganisms can be grown in a body cavity by situating therein a nutrient on a suitable carrier while maintaining the nutrient exposed to a predetermined gaseous atmosphere, so that microorganisms which require a particular atmosphere can grow directly in the body cavity on the nutrient. After a time sufficient for culture growth the carrier with the nutrient thereon are removed from the body cavity and inspected, for example, under a microscope with suitable dyes being used to stain the growth for rendering the latter easily visible.

Abstract: Methods and devices according to which body fluids, such as blood, are collected in the interior of the body in a cavity thereof with the fluid which is collected being directed to a fluid receiving location through a path of a given degree of restriction for controlling the characteristics of the collected fluid. Thus, it is possible to direct a fluid such as blood to the interior of a container through a suitable filter or sponges of different degree of coarseness can be arranged with one surrounding the next with each inner sponge having cells smaller than the next outer sponge. Also it is possible to utilize receptacles communicating through capillary tubes of predetermined diameters with the fluid. A suitable preservative for the body fluid is situated in the container.

Abstract: Methods and devices to be used in connection with collection and analyzing of blood. A device which is capable of receiving and holding blood is introduced into the interior of a body cavity where blood is present, and after the device remains in the body cavity for a time sufficient to receive and hold blood, the device is removed and at least part of the blood removed therewith is tested. The device includes an outer holder formed with an entrance through which blood may flow freely into the interior of the holder, and within the holder is a structure such as a body of filamentary material capable of retaining blood in the interior of the holder. This device may be incorporated into a tampon introduced into the vagina for collecting blood during the menstrual cycle.