Menstrual Blood Test May Replace Invasive Cervical Cancer Screening

A new study suggests that cervical cancer testing could be done at home using menstrual blood collected on a cotton strip attached to a standard sanitary pad. A regular sanitary pad topped with a blood sample strip can pick up human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes most cases of cervical cancer, according to The Guardian.

The test is already becoming prevalent in the UK, as the National Health Service is sending at-home test kits to women in some areas of England who have missed several cervical screening appointments.

These DIY test kits containing a vaginal swab will be sent out more widely at some point this year.

Why Current Screening Misses Many Women

At present, cervical screening in the NHS (National Health Service) involves a nurse or doctor taking a sample of cells from the cervix. This requires a speculum to be inserted into the vagina.

Many avoid the test because of fear, pain, discomfort, or bad past experiences. Others face barriers linked to menopause, disability, cultural factors, or a history of sexual violence.

Younger women, people with disabilities, those from ethnic minority backgrounds, and LGBT+ communities are more likely to miss appointments, experts say.

The researchers also say using menstrual blood for HPV testing is "convenient" or "easy", not only respecting women's privacy, but also reducing their discomfort.

What the Study Found

The new test uses menstrual blood collected on a small cotton strip attached to a standard sanitary pad. Women can use it at home during their period.

Researchers tested the blood for high-risk types of HPV. The study, published in The BMJ, involved 3,068 women aged between 20 and 54 with regular menstrual cycles.

Each subject provided three samples for testing: a menstrual blood sample collected using a sanitary pad and strip, a cervical sample collected by a clinician, and an extra sample collected by a health worker for processing in a lab.

Upon comparison, researchers found the period blood test was almost as effective at identifying women who had the disease and very accurate at identifying those who did not.

What Happens After a Positive Result

Anyone who tests positive for HPV would be referred for a colposcopy. This procedure uses a special magnifying instrument to closely examine the cervix for pre-cancerous cells.

Experts say period blood tests cannot replace current cervical screening right away, as the method would only work for women who are menstruating.

Some also caution that the study may have made the test seem more effective than it is, since not all participants had a biopsy, a more thorough test to confirm the results.