Menstrual Blood Test May Offer At-Home Alternative to Cervical Cancer Screening

Researchers say a menstrual blood test could provide a simple, non-invasive alternative to cervical screening. The method uses a standard sanitary pad fitted with a sample strip to detect human papillomavirus, the main cause of cervical cancer. Scientists tested the approach in more than 3,000 women in China and published the results in BMJ. The pad-based test detected serious cervical cell abnormalities with similar accuracy to clinician-collected samples. It showed high sensitivity and comparable referral rates for further testing. Researchers say the method could help reach women who avoid traditional screening. Experts welcome the findings but stress that larger trials are needed before clinical use. They also note the test would not suit everyone, including menopausal women.