A new study suggests menstrual blood could offer a convenient alternative to cervical cancer screening. Researchers found that a simple sanitary pad fitted with a sample strip can detect human papillomavirus, which causes most cervical cancers. The test can be used at home and avoids invasive clinical procedures.
Researchers in China compared menstrual blood samples with clinician-collected cervical samples in more than 3,000 women. The findings, published in BMJ, showed the pad-based test detected serious cervical cell changes with similar accuracy to traditional screening. Sensitivity reached 94.7%, slightly higher than clinician-collected samples, while negative results proved equally reliable.
Experts say the method could help reach women who avoid screening appointments. Cancer Research UK welcomed the innovation but stressed that larger and more diverse trials are needed. Researchers and charities also noted the test would not suit everyone, including menopausal women, but said offering more screening options could save lives.
