Assessing the Acceptability of a Diagnostic Tampon for HPV self-sampling in Tanzania

This doctorate is the culmination of a journey that began in early 2019, in conversation with Professor Dan Bausch, whose immediate encouragement set me on the path toward a DrPH. I embarked upon this degree auspiciously, without knowing I was expecting my daughter. Completing the taught phase while heavily pregnant, submitting my last assignment (ironically on hand washing and mask-wearing, mere weeks before the world changed with COVID), and then going into labour that very night are memories etched in the foundations of this thesis. After maternity leave during the pandemic, I returned in 2021 to undertake my OPA, evaluating the UK overseas territories programme at UKHSA amid the COVID emergency. My journey then led to a Cabinet Office secondment during the G20 and, later, another maternity leave to spend precious time with my son, Elio. Stepping into the role of Head of Global Public Health at Daye, a FemTech startup, demonstrated the profound impact of women's health innovations and cemented my commitment to cervical cancer prevention. Inspired by the disproportionate burden of cervical cancer in LMICs and the urgent need for empowering screening options, I chose the theme of this thesis with a deep sense of mission. None of this would have been possible without my husband Mark, whose unwavering support, patience, and cheerleading have been my greatest source of stability and humour through the blood, sweat, and tears of research life. To my two and a half joys, Remi, Elio, and the little one soon to arrive, thank you for anchoring me to the real meaning and purpose behind this work. My parents, who have never ceased to support, guide, and believe in me, deserve more thanks than words can express. To UKHSA and Daye (especially Valentina), whose funding, belief, and practical support gave me the freedom to pursue this vision, and to Aleks, for tireless mentorship, friendship, collaborative grant work, and the push toward my first publication related to this thesis. Your generosity and intellect have left an indelible mark. Professor Pembe and the MUHAS team generously hosted and organized my Tanzanian research, a wonderful in partnership and professionalism that made the RS2 study a joy to undertake. My supervisors, Professor Shelley Lees and Dr. Susan Kelly, offered both practical insight and guidance. Shelley’s public health anthropology and Sue’s social science expertise added to my work, and for that I am grateful. To every participant, colleague, and external partner who contributed, challenged, and inspired me, thank you. This thesis embodies own journey, and also the resilience, innovation, and trust of women navigating health challenges worldwide