
Menstrual blood test proposed as less invasive cervical cancer screen
A BMJ study of over 3,000 women suggests HPV testing using menstrual blood collected on mini-pads could nearly match clinician-taken samples in detecting cervical cancer and offers a more convenient at‑home option, potentially improving access and privacy. However, it is not yet ready to replace standard screening, being applicable only to those who menstruate, and requires further validation in diverse groups and with biopsy-confirmed outcomes.









