Collection apparatus

Abstract

There is provided a bodily discharge collection apparatus (20) comprising: a collection receptacle (22) configured to, in use, receive bodily discharge from a user; and a container (24) removably attached to the collection receptacle (22), wherein the collection receptacle (22) and container (24) are configured to, in use, guide at least part of the bodily discharge into the container (24), and wherein the container (24) includes at least one first filter configured to, in use, permit one part of the bodily discharge to exit the container (24) while preventing another part of the bodily discharge from exiting the container (24).

Description

[0001] COLLECTION APPARATUS

[0002] The invention relates to a bodily discharge collection apparatus, particularly a miscarriage discharge collection apparatus.

[0003] A person experiencing or at risk of miscarriage may experience vaginal bleeding, passing of tissue from their vagina and more blood clots than usual. Typically, they are advised to collect and store any miscarriage discharge in a container for subsequent examination by a medical professional. The process of collecting and storing the miscarriage discharge can be stressful and traumatic to the person, particularly due to the amount of manual handling involved.

[0004] Accordingly, the invention seeks to reduce the stress and trauma experienced by the person by simplifying the collection and storage process.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a bodily discharge collection apparatus comprising: a collection receptacle configured to, in use, receive bodily discharge from a user; and a container removably attached to the collection receptacle, wherein the collection receptacle and container are configured to, in use, guide at least part of the bodily discharge into the container, and wherein the container includes at least one first filter configured to, in use, permit one part of the bodily discharge to exit the container while preventing another part of the bodily discharge from exiting the container.

[0006] The configuration of the invention results in a bodily discharge collection apparatus that automatically collects bodily discharge in a container, which is easily removed from the collection receptacle for subsequent storage and, if needed, examination by a medical professional. This obviates or minimises the need to manually handle and move the bodily discharge from the collection receptacle to a separate container not forming part of the bodily discharge collection apparatus. Such manual handling and moving of bodily discharge, either by hand or by using a tool, can be difficult and stressful for the user, especially if the user is required to sift through the bodily discharge in order to separate the wanted bodily discharge from the unwanted bodily discharge. In addition, the provision of the at least one first filter in the container helps to ensure that the wanted bodily discharge is collected in the container while allowing the unwanted bodily discharge to exit the container. This in turns avoids the need for the user to manually separate the wanted and unwanted bodily discharge collected in a container.

[0007] The invention may be used in a healthcare setting by a medical professional or by a user with the help of a medical professional. The invention may be used in a domestic setting by a user, who may or may not be a medical professional.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the bodily discharge collection apparatus is a miscarriage discharge collection apparatus. The collection receptacle may be configured to, in use, receive miscarriage discharge from the user. The collection receptacle and container may be configured to, in use, guide at least part of the miscarriage discharge into the container. The invention is particularly helpful to miscarriage patients experiencing a stressful time by eliminating or minimising the amount of manual handling required to collect the miscarriage discharge in the container. Furthermore, the container may be used as a burial container for any embryonic or fetal tissue, if desired by the user.

[0009] In embodiments of the invention, the collection receptacle may include at least one second filter configured to, in use, permit one part of the bodily discharge to exit the collection receptacle while preventing another part of the bodily discharge from exiting the collection receptacle. Configuring the collection receptacle in this manner helps unwanted bodily discharge to leave the collection receptacle before it reaches the container.

[0010] The container may consist of a single chamber. Alternatively, the container may be divided into a plurality of compartments by at least one third filter. The or each third filter may be configured to permit one part of the bodily discharge to pass therethrough while preventing another part of the bodily discharge from passing therethrough.

[0011] Different third filters may be configured to permit different sizes of matter to pass therethrough so as to enable each compartment to receive and store differently sized bodily discharge, which may vary depending on the stage of miscarriage or type of miscarriage discharge. This enables automatic allocation of differently sized bodily discharge to different compartments of the container while enabling unwanted bodily discharge to leave the container. The or each third filter may be integral to the container. Alternatively, the or each third filter may be removable from the container. In such embodiments, the container may be configured to temporarily locate the or each third filter at a predetermined depth inside the container in a variety of ways. The container may include at least one protrusion (e.g. rib or ridge) or at least one opening (e.g. slot or groove) to engage the or each third filter and thereby locate the or each third filter at a predetermined depth inside the container. The container may be tapered so that a size of the or each third filter relative to the taper of the container determines the height at which the or each third filter is located inside the container.

[0012] The one part of the bodily discharge may include urine. The another part of the bodily discharge may include body tissue such as blood clots and embryonic or fetal tissue.

[0013] The configuration of the or each filter may vary. The or each filter may include filter holes. The or each filter includes filter holes with a chamfered or rounded edge. The or each filter may include elongate filter holes. The or each filter may include filter holes, wherein a width or diameter of each filter hole may be equal to or larger than 2 mm. The or each filter may include a combination of elongate and round filter holes.

[0014] Preferably the bodily discharge collection apparatus is used in combination with a toilet, which may be a fixed bathroom fixture or may be a portable toilet such as a commode, a chamber pot or a bedpan. In embodiments of the invention, the bodily discharge collection apparatus may include one or more support members configured to, in use, support the collection receptacle in, on or over a toilet. Preferably the bodily discharge collection apparatus includes one or more support members configured to, in use, support the collection receptacle in, on or over a front end of a toilet. Non-limiting examples of a support member include a rim, an overhang, an anchor, a gripper or a fastening band.

[0015] The collection receptacle is preferably concave in shape. For example, the collection receptacle may be in the shape of a bowl.

[0016] The collection receptacle and container may be configured in a variety of ways to improve the manner in which at least part of the bodily discharge is guided into the container. In a first non-limiting example, the container may be removably attached to the collection receptacle adjacent or at a lowermost location of the collection receptacle.

[0017] In a second non-limiting example, the container may be configured to be suspended when removably attached to the collection receptacle. In such an example, a lip of the container may be flush with, or lower than, a floor of the collection receptacle. Alternatively, the bodily discharge collection apparatus may include a support platform suspended from the collection receptacle, wherein the container may be configured to be suspended from or supported on the support platform when removably attached to the collection receptacle.

[0018] In a third non-limiting example, the collection receptacle may include a sloped surface to, in use, guide at least part of the bodily discharge into the container.

[0019] In a fourth non-limiting example, the container may include a sloped lip to, in use, guide at least part of the bodily discharge into the container.

[0020] In some embodiments of the invention, the container may have a fixed volume. In other embodiments of the invention, the container may have an adjustable volume. The container may be adjustable in length, width and / or height in order to adjust its volume. The container may have a telescopic container body, a foldable container body or a collapsible container body.

[0021] In embodiments of the invention, the bodily discharge collection apparatus may further include a lid for closing the container. The lid may be configured to permit closing of the container by the lid when the container is still attached to the collection receptacle. Alternatively, the lid may be configured to permit closing of the container by the lid only after the container is removed from the collection receptacle. The lid may be opaque.

[0022] In further embodiments of the invention, the container may include a handle operable to remove the container from the collection receptacle. The handle may be in the form of a ridge or rib on a surface of the container. Alternatively, the handle may be in the form of a loop handle. Further alternatively, the handle may be in the form of a lipped edge of the container. The container may include a single handle or a plurality of handles. Preferably a thickness of a handle is equal to or less than 2 mm. This is to avoid the handle from obstructing the flow of bodily discharge into the container. The handle may be integrated with the container or detachably attached to the container. Preferably the container includes a cylindrical container body. Other shapes of the container body, such as polygonal container bodies, are envisaged.

[0023] Preferably the container includes a rigid container body.

[0024] The bodily discharge collection apparatus may include at least one fastener (e.g. a lock, latch or bayonet connector) to secure the container to the collection receptacle. The container may include a screw thread that is threadingly engaged with a corresponding screw thread of the collection receptacle.

[0025] The material of the container may vary in type and number. The container may be made of a single material or a composite material. The container may be made of or may include at least one of:

[0026] • a natural material;

[0027] • a biodegradable material;

[0028] • a sterile material;

[0029] • an antibacterial material;

[0030] • an antimicrobial material;

[0031] • an opaque material;

[0032] • a material having a light or neutral colour.

[0033] The container may be coated with a protective coating. The protective coating may be at least one of the following: a sterile coating, an antibacterial coating; an antimicrobial coating; an opaque coating; a hydrophobic coating.

[0034] The bodily discharge collection apparatus may include a single container or a plurality of containers. The plurality of containers may include the container and at least one replacement container. The or each replacement container may be removably attachable to the collection receptacle. The ability to replace the container with one or more replacement containers is particularly beneficial to a user that requires multiple uses of the bodily discharge collection apparatus at different times. Thus, the bodily discharge from each use of the bodily discharge collection apparatus can be stored in a respective separate container, instead of reusing the same container.

[0035] In embodiments of the invention, the plurality of containers may be configurable as a stack of containers. The ability to stack the containers allows for ease of storage and transport of the containers. In further embodiments of the invention, the collection receptacle may be foldable or collapsible. This allows the user to reconfigure the collection receptacle to a more compact form that not only is more easily carried but also is more discreet when it comes to storage and transport.

[0036] In still further embodiments of the invention, the bodily discharge collection apparatus may include a storage unit, preferably a thermally insulated storage unit, for holding the container. This allows the contents of the container to be kept at a stable desired temperature during storage and transport, thereby maintain the integrity of the contents of the container. The storage unit is preferably configured to provide a secure, snug fit for the container.

[0037] In embodiments of the invention, the collection receptacle and container may be configured to, in use, guide at least part of the bodily discharge from the collection receptacle into the container.

[0038] In further embodiments of the invention, the container may be removably attached to the collection receptacle at a lowermost location of the collection receptacle, wherein the container may be configured to be suspended from the collection receptacle when removably attached to the collection receptacle.

[0039] In still further embodiments of the invention, the container may be configured to be suspended from the collection receptacle when removably attached to the collection receptacle, wherein the at least one filter may include filter holes located in a floor of the container, wherein the bodily discharge collection apparatus may include one or more support members configured to, in use, support the collection receptacle in, on or over a toilet.

[0040] The bodily discharge collection apparatus may include a cover for covering the collection receptacle.

[0041] The bodily discharge collection apparatus may further include at least one mesh. The at least one mesh may be insertable into the container or configurable around the container. The container may include one or more visual aids for indicating collected volume in the container. The or each visual aid may be in the form of a mark (or marking), or a protruding feature such as a ridge or bump, that can be visually observed.

[0042] In embodiments of the invention, the bodily discharge collection apparatus may further include a collector vessel arranged to, in use, collect the one part of the bodily discharge exiting the container. For example, the collector vessel may collect urine or blood that exits the container.

[0043] The collector vessel may be configured or arranged in various ways in order to perform its function. The collector vessel may be arranged underneath and / or around the container. The collector vessel may be configured to be detachably connected to the collection receptacle and / or the container. The collector vessel may be configured to be suspended from the collection receptacle and / or the container.

[0044] The bodily discharge collection apparatus may further include a container holder operable to hold the container, wherein the container holder includes a projecting handle. The container holder may include a gripper, or other attachment element such as a threaded element, attached to an end of the projecting handle.

[0045] The bodily discharge collection apparatus may include one or more spacers projecting from a surface of the collection receptacle. The one or more spacers may be, but is not limited to, a ridge or a bump.

[0046] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a kit of parts for a bodily discharge collection apparatus, the kit of parts comprising a collection receptacle and a container, wherein the collection receptacle and container are combinable to form the bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the first aspect of the invention and its embodiments.

[0047] The kit of parts may include at least one first filter, wherein the collection receptacle, the container and the at least one first filter may be combinable to form the bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the first aspect of the invention and its embodiments.

[0048] The features and advantages of the first aspect of the invention and its embodiments apply mutatis mutandis to the second aspect of the invention and its embodiments. It will be appreciated that the use of the terms "first" and "second", and the like, in this patent specification is merely intended to help distinguish between similar features, and is not intended to indicate the relative importance of one feature over another feature, unless otherwise specified.

[0049] Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, and the claims and / or the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and all features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and / or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and / or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.

[0050] Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of non-limiting examples with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0051] Figures 1 to 3 show a miscarriage discharge collection apparatus according to a first embodiment of the invention;

[0052] Figure 4 shows a miscarriage discharge collection apparatus according to a second embodiment of the invention;

[0053] Figure 5 illustrates a removal of a container from a collection receptacle of the miscarriage discharge collection apparatus of Figures 1 to 3; and

[0054] Figures 6 to 19 show various examples of containers for use in a miscarriage discharge collection apparatus.

[0055] The figures are not necessarily to scale, and certain features and certain views of the figures may be shown exaggerated in scale or in schematic form in the interests of clarity and conciseness.

[0056] It will be appreciated that every embodiment is not pictured and that embodiments which are not included in the figures will nonetheless fall within the scope of the claims.

[0057] The following embodiments of the invention are described with reference to a miscarriage discharge collection apparatus for receiving and collecting miscarriage discharge. It will be appreciated that the following embodiments of the invention apply mutatis mutandis to other types of bodily discharge collection apparatus. A miscarriage discharge collection apparatus according to a first embodiment of the invention is shown in Figure 1 and is designated generally by the reference numeral 20.

[0058] The miscarriage discharge collection apparatus 20 comprises a collection receptacle 22 and a container 24.

[0059] The collection receptacle 22 is in the shape of a bowl. The miscarriage discharge apparatus 20 includes a support member 26 to support the collection receptacle 22 over a front end of a toilet and partially inside a toilet bowl at the front end of the toilet. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the support member 26 is in the form of a semicircular rim that is wider than, and sits on, a rim of the front end of the toilet. The semicircular rim may include one or more overhang members that extend downwards to grip the rim of the toilet in order to minimise movement of the collection receptacle 22. The semicircular rim may be sandwiched between the rim of the front end of the toilet and a toilet seat so as to secure the position of the collection receptacle 22.

[0060] It will be appreciated that the collection receptacle 22 and the support member 26 may be shaped and sized differently depending on the shape, size and type of toilet used, so as to ensure that the collection receptacle 22 is secured to the toilet.

[0061] The container 24 has a cylindrical container body 28 with a circumferential lip 30 defining an access aperture 32 of the container 24. The container 24 of the invention preferably has a rigid container body 28. The cylindrical shape and rigidity of the container body 28 is chosen for easier handling by a user. The container 24 is insertable into a correspondingly shaped opening at a lowermost location of a floor of the collection receptacle 22. The correspondingly shaped opening includes an annular inner shoulder portion 34. The lip 30 of the container 24 defines a flange that engages the inner shoulder portion 34 so that the inserted container 24 is suspended from the collection receptacle 22. In addition, the inner shoulder portion 34 is recessed from the floor of the collection receptacle 22 so that an uppermost edge of the lip 30 of the inserted container 24 is flush with the floor of the collection receptacle 22.

[0062] Other non-limiting examples of securing or fastening the container 24 to the collection receptacle 22 are described throughout the specification. Hence, in use, the collection receptacle 22 is positioned to receive vaginal discharge and urine from a user. The vaginal discharge may include miscarriage discharge such as embryonic or fetal tissue or blood clots. The collection receptacle 22 may have a volumetric capacity of up to 1.5 litres to accommodate varying amount of urine and miscarriage discharge. Since the collection receptacle 22 is located over the front end of the toilet and partially inside the toilet bowl at the front end of the toilet, any faecal matter bypasses the collection receptacle 22 and is directly discharged into the toilet. It will be appreciated that, in other embodiments of the invention, the miscarriage discharge collection apparatus may include an additional collection receptacle for collecting discharged faecal matter.

[0063] Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the miscarriage discharge collection apparatus 20. To direct the miscarriage discharge to the container 24, the floor of the collection receptacle 22 is sloped towards the inserted container 24 so as to guide the miscarriage discharge into the container 24. Furthermore, the lip 30 of the container 24 is sloped to help guide the miscarriage discharge into the container 24. Alternatively, in other embodiments of the invention, the lip of the container may be flat, as shown in Figure 4.

[0064] The container 24 includes a first filter having filter holes 36 that are sized to permit urine to exit the container 24 while preventing the miscarriage discharge from exiting the container 24. The filter holes 36 are located in a floor of the container 24 and optionally in the walls of the container 24. Figures 1 to 4 show containers 24 with filter holes 36 in the floor and walls, while Figure 5 shows a container 24 with filter holes 36 in the floor. In this way the container 24 is configured as a sieve insert.

[0065] The collection receptacle 22 also includes a second filter having filter holes 38 that are sized to permit urine to exit the collection receptacle 22 while preventing the miscarriage discharge from exiting the collection receptacle 22, thereby clearing some of the urine before it reaches the container 24. The filter holes 38 are located in a floor of the collection receptacle 22. In this way the collection receptacle 22 is configured as a sieve.

[0066] The filter holes 36,38 are preferably elongate filter holes to effectively sieve viscous liquids while preventing clogging of the filter holes 36,38. A length of each elongate filter hole may vary. A width of each elongate filter hole 36,38 may be equal to or larger than 2 mm. The size of the filter hole may be selected so that the filters are capable of retaining miscarriage discharge arising from miscarriage events occurring at a specific time since the start of pregnancy, e.g. from four weeks onwards since the state of pregnancy. The filter holes 36, 38 may have a chamfered or rounded edge to improve fluid flow.

[0067] The provision of the first and second filters prevents urine from over-accumulating inside the container 24, thereby effectively separating the miscarriage discharge from most, if not all, of the urine. As a result, there is little to no need for a user to manually separate the miscarriage discharge from the urine, either by hand or by using a tool.

[0068] After use, the container 24 may be removed from the collection receptacle 22 by lifting the container 24 or pushing the container 24 from underneath the collection receptacle 22, as shown in Figure 6.

[0069] Optionally the container 24 may include at least one handle 40 that is operable to lift the container 24 and thereby remove the container 24 from the collection receptacle 22, as shown in Figure 7. This helps the user avoid touching the miscarriage discharge contents of the container 24 when removing the container 24 from the collection receptacle 22. The handle 40 (or handles as the case may be) may be attached or integral to the lip of the container 24. The handle 40 may be in the form of a ridge or rib, or in the form of a loop handle. Preferably the handle 40 is sufficiently small, e.g. having a thickness of 2 mm or less, so as to not block the miscarriage discharge from entering the container 24.

[0070] The miscarriage discharge collection apparatus 20 further includes a lid 42 for closing the container 24, as shown in Figure 8. The lid 42 is preferably opaque to conceal the contents of the container 24. The container 24 may be housed inside a storage unit 44 that is preferably opaque for discreet and hygienic storage (e.g. inside a refrigerator) and waterproof to prevent any leakage during storage and transport. Additionally, the storage unit 44 may be thermally insulated to maintain the contents of the container 24 at a stable temperature during storage and transport.

[0071] The miscarriage discharge collection apparatus 20 may include one or more replacement containers 24, each of which is configured in the same manner as the aforementioned container 24. The user may need to use multiple containers 24 when using the miscarriage discharge collection apparatus 20 at different times. Thus, the miscarriage discharges from the different uses of the miscarriage discharge collection apparatus 20 are stored in different containers 24. In other embodiments, one or more replacement containers 24 may be configured differently, e.g. to have a respective different volume, to have different sizes or types of filter holes. Non-limiting examples of variations of containers are described throughout the specification and may be used as the or each replacement container.

[0072] In the event that multiple containers 24 are used, the multiple containers 24 may be stackable on top of each other, as exemplarily shown in Figure 9. The storage unit may be configured to hold multiple containers 24. Figures 10 and 11 show non-limiting examples of storage units 44 for storing containers 24. The storage unit 44 of Figure

[0073] 10 is sufficiently tall to store a stack of containers 24. The storage unit 44 of Figure

[0074] 11 includes slots for receiving the containers 24 respectively. The storage unit 44 is preferably configured to provide a secure, snug fit for the containers 24, e.g. through the use of suitably sized and shaped foam inserts.

[0075] Furthermore, the container 24 may be used as a burial container 24 for any embryonic or fetal tissue, if desired by the user.

[0076] In the embodiment shown, the container 24 consists of a single chamber.

[0077] In other embodiments of the invention, the container 24 may be divided into a plurality of compartments 46 by one or more third filters 48. For example, a single third filter 48 inserted inside the container 24 divides the container 24 into two compartments 46, as shown in Figure 12, while multiple third filters 48 inserted and spaced apart depth-wise inside the container 24 divides the container 24 into multiple compartments 46, as shown in Figure 13. The or each third filter 48 is configured to have filter holes 50 that are sized to permit urine to pass therethrough while preventing miscarriage discharge of a certain size from passing therethrough. When multiple third filters 48 are used, the multiple third filters 48 may have differently sized filter holes 50 so that miscarriage discharge matter of different sizes are automatically allocated to the respective different compartments 46, while still allowing urine to exit the container 24. Such manner of collection further reduces the need for manual separation of the various types of miscarriage discharge.

[0078] The or each third filter 48 may be integral to the container 24. Alternatively, the or each third filter 48 may be removable from the container 24. For example, the or each third filter 48 may be configured as an insert, preferably a disc-shaped insert. The or each third filter 48 may be located at a predetermined depth inside the container 24 by a rib 52, ridge, slot or groove in the inner wall of the container 24, wherein the rib 52, ridge, slot or groove engages the or each third filter 48 in order to locate the or each third filter 48 at a predetermined depth inside the container 24, as shown in Figures 14 and 15. Additionally or alternatively, the container 24 may be tapered so that a size of the or each third filter 48 relative to the taper of the container 24 determines the height at which the or each third filter 48 is located inside the container 24, as shown in Figures 16 and 17.

[0079] In the embodiment shown, the container 24 has a fixed volume. Alternatively, the container 24 may have an adjustable volume to accommodate a different amount of collected miscarriage discharge or to accommodate multiple third filters 48. In particular, the container 24 may be adjustable in length, width and / or height in order to adjust its volume. In a non-limiting example, the container 24 may have a telescopic, foldable or collapsible container body, a foldable container body or a collapsible container body, which not only allows the container 24 to be sized appropriately according to the amount of miscarriage discharge collected but also allows the container 24 to be configured in a more compact form for discreet storage and transport. Figure 18 shows an exemplary container 24 with a telescopic container body, while Figure 19 shows an exemplary container 24 with a collapsible container body.

[0080] The collection receptacle 22 may be foldable or collapsible into a more compact form that not only is more easily carried but also is more discreet when it comes to storage and transport.

[0081] The collection receptacle 22 and container 24 of the invention may be made of:

[0082] • Eco-friendly materials, such as natural or biodegradable materials that decompose naturally without harming the environment.

[0083] • Burial-compatible materials, which are chosen specifically for safe and respectful disposal through burial, ensuring that all components break down over time.

[0084] • Non-toxic materials, which are preferably free from harmful chemicals and toxins, ensuring safe interaction with soil and groundwater during decomposition.

[0085] • Durable materials, which are engineered to maintain structural integrity during use but designed to decompose effectively once buried.

[0086] • Sterile, antibacterial or antimicrobial materials to reduce the risk of infection and enhance hygiene. Such materials may be applied to the container 24 in the form of a protective coating. • Opaque materials to help conceal the miscarriage discharge.

[0087] • Light or neutral coloured materials to provide contrast and allow for easy inspection of the collected contents (e.g., white);

[0088] • A hydrophobic coating applied to the container. The hydrophobic coating prevents unwanted residue, such as blood residue, from sticking to the container. This not only helps to reduce trauma and the need for cleaning but also places the container in a state ready for reuse or transport..

[0089] Non-limiting examples of suitable materials include polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), cellulose, cellulose acetate, starch-based plastics, polyglycolic acid (PGA), pulp, paper, pulp and paper with PLA coating, bio-polyester, polymorphous polylactide (PLLA), lignin-based bioplastics, soy protein isolate, corn zein, gelatin, alginate, carrageenan, seaweed, bagasse, palm leaf, bamboo fibre, hemp fibre, jute fibre, silk fibroin, wheat gluten, natural rubber, coconut coir, myceliumbased materials, rice husk, cork, areca palm sheath, candelilla wax coated paper, and beeswax coated cloth.

[0090] In alternative embodiments, instead of suspending the container 24 from the collection receptacle 22, the miscarriage discharge collection apparatus 20 may include a support platform suspended from the collection receptacle 22, wherein the container 24 may be configured to be suspended from or supported on the support platform when removably attached to the collection receptacle 22.

[0091] The miscarriage discharge collection apparatus 20 may include a cover for covering the collection receptacle 22. This provides additional privacy for the user, especially after the apparatus 20 is used. The cover may be a rigid cover that is attachable to the collection receptacle 22 using a fastener, such as a snap-fit fastener or a fastening band. Alternatively the cover may be a flexible coverthat is attachable to the collection receptacle 22 using a fastener or that may be wrapped around the collection receptable 22, like a bag.

[0092] The miscarriage discharge collection apparatus 20 may further include at least one mesh. The at least one mesh may be insertable into the container 24 or configurable around the container 24. This provides additional filtering options for the container to handle different circumstances such as a molar pregnancy. The container may include one or more visual aids for indicating collected volume in the container. The or each visual aid may be in the form of a mark (or marking), or a protruding feature such as a ridge or bump, that can be visually observed.

[0093] In embodiments of the invention, the miscarriage discharge collection apparatus may further include a collector vessel arranged to, in use, collect the one part of the miscarriage discharge exiting the container. For example, the collector vessel may collect urine or blood that exits the container.

[0094] The collector vessel may be configured or arranged in various ways in order to perform its function. The collector vessel may be arranged underneath and / or around the container. The collector vessel may be configured to be detachably connected to the collection receptacle and / or the container. The collector vessel may be configured to be suspended from the collection receptacle and / or the container.

[0095] A user may choose to use the container without the collection receptacle 22 in situations where it is not easy to carry the collection receptacle 22 around in a private manner. In such embodiments, the miscarriage discharge collection apparatus 20 may further include a container holder operable to hold the container 24, wherein the container holder includes a projecting handle such as a rod. The container holder may include a gripper, or other attachment element such as a threaded element, attached to an end of the projecting handle. The projecting handle allows the user to manoeuvre the container 24 into the right position with ease, without having to use the collection receptacle 22 to help position the container 24. After use, the container 24 may be removed from the container holder.

[0096] The miscarriage discharge collection apparatus 20 may include one or more spacers projecting from a surface of the collection receptacle 24. The one or more spacers may be, but is not limited to, a ridge or a bump. As the apparatus of the invention may be manufacturing using injection moulding, the provision of the one or more spacers enables the stacking of multiple apparatus on top of each other. This is particularly useful in preventing deformation of the multiple apparatus shortly after injection moulding.

[0097] The listing or discussion of an apparently prior published document or apparently prior published information in this specification should not necessarily be taken as an acknowledgement that the document is part of the state of the art or is common general knowledge. Preferences and options for a given aspect, feature or parameter of the invention should, unless the context indicated otherwise, be regarded as having been disclosed in combination with any and all preferences and options for all other aspects, features and parameters of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A bodily discharge collection apparatus comprising: a collection receptacle configured to, in use, receive bodily discharge from a user; and a container removably attached to the collection receptacle, wherein the collection receptacle and container are configured to, in use, guide at least part of the bodily discharge into the container, and wherein the container includes at least one first filter configured to, in use, permit one part of the bodily discharge to exit the container while preventing another part of the bodily discharge from exiting the container.

2. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to Claim 1 wherein the bodily discharge collection apparatus is a miscarriage discharge collection apparatus, and wherein the collection receptacle is configured to, in use, receive miscarriage discharge from the user, and wherein the collection receptacle and container are configured to, in use, guide at least part of the miscarriage discharge into the container.

3. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the collection receptacle and container are configured to, in use, guide at least part of the bodily discharge from the collection receptacle into the container.

4. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the container is removably attached to the collection receptacle at a lowermost location of the collection receptacle, wherein the container is configured to be suspended from the collection receptacle when removably attached to the collection receptacle.

5. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the container is configured to be suspended from the collection receptacle when removably attached to the collection receptacle, wherein the at least one filter includes filter holes located in a floor of the container, wherein the bodily discharge collection apparatus includes one or more support members configured to, in use, support the collection receptacle in, on or over a toilet.

6. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the collection receptacle includes at least one second filter configured to, in use, permit one part of the bodily discharge to exit the collection receptacle while preventing another part of the bodily discharge from exiting the collection receptacle.

7. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the container is divided into a plurality of compartments by at least one third filter, wherein the or each third filter is configured to, in use, permit one part of the bodily discharge to pass therethrough while preventing another part of the bodily discharge from passing therethrough.

8. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to Claim 7 wherein the or each third filter is removable from the container.

9. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the one part of the bodily discharge includes urine, and the another part of the bodily discharge includes body tissue.

10. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the or each filter includes filter holes with a chamfered or rounded edge.

11. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the or each filter includes elongate filter holes.

12. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the or each filter includes filter holes, wherein a width or diameter of each filter hole is equal to or larger than 2 mm.

13. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims including one or more support members configured to, in use, support the collection receptacle on top of a toilet.

14. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to Claim 5 or Claim 13 wherein the one or more support members include a rim.

15. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to Claim 14 wherein the rim is in the form of a semicircular rim.

16. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to Claim 5 or any one of Claims 13 to 15 wherein the one or more support members include an overhang.

17. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to Claim 16 in combination with any one of Claims 14 to 15 wherein the rim includes the overhang that extendsdownwards to, in use, grip a rim of a toilet in order to minimise movement of the collection receptacle.

18. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to Claim 5 or any one of Claims 13 to 17 wherein the one or more support members include an anchor.

19. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to Claim 5 or any one of Claims 13 to 18 wherein the one or more support members include a gripper.

20. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to Claim 5 or any one of Claims 13 to 19 wherein the one or more support members include a fastening band.

21. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the collection receptacle is in the shape of a bowl.

22. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the container is removably attached to the collection receptacle adjacent or at a lowermost location of the collection receptacle.

23. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the container is configured to be suspended when removably attached to the collection receptacle.

24. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 to 22 including a support platform suspended from the collection receptacle, wherein the container is configured to be suspended from or supported on the support platform when removably attached to the collection receptacle.

25. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the collection receptacle includes a sloped surface to, in use, guide at least part of the bodily discharge into the container.

26. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the container includes a sloped lip to, in use, guide at least part of the bodily discharge into the container.

27. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the container has an adjustable volume.

28. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims further including a lid for closing the container.

29. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the container includes a handle operable to remove the container from the collection receptacle.

30. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the container includes a cylindrical container body.

31. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the container is made of or includes at least one of:• a natural material;• a biodegradable material;• a sterile material;• an antibacterial material;• an antimicrobial material;• an opaque material;• a material having a light or neutral colour.

32. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the container is coated with a protective coating.

33. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims including a plurality of containers, wherein the plurality of containers includes the container and at least one replacement container, wherein the or each replacement container is removably attachable to the collection receptacle.

34. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to Claim 33 wherein the plurality of containers is configurable as a stack of containers.

35. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the collection receptacle is foldable or collapsible.

36. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims including a thermally insulated storage unit for holding the container.

37. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims including a cover for covering the collection receptacle.

38. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims further including at least one mesh, wherein the at least one mesh is insertable into the container or configurable around the container.

39. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the container includes one or more visual aids for indicating collected volume in the container.

40. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims further including a collector vessel arranged to, in use, collect the one part of the bodily discharge exiting the container.

41. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to Claim 40 wherein the collector vessel is arranged underneath and / or around the container.

42. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to Claim 40 or Claim 41 wherein the collector vessel is configured to be detachably connected to the collection receptacle and / or the container.

43. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of Claims 40 to 42 wherein the collector vessel is configured to be suspended from the collection receptacle and / or the container.

44. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims further including a container holder operable to hold the container, wherein the container holder includes a projecting handle.

45. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims including one or more spacers projecting from a surface of the collection receptacle.

46. A bodily discharge collection apparatus according to Claim 45 wherein the one or more spacers is a ridge or a bump.

47. A kit of parts for a bodily discharge collection apparatus, the kit of parts comprising a collection receptacle and a container, wherein the collection receptacle and container are combinable to form the bodily discharge collection apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims.

48. A kit of parts according to Claim 47 wherein the kit of parts includes at least one first filter, wherein the collection receptacle, the container and the at least one first filter is combinable to form the bodily discharge collection apparatus.

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