Testing for cervical cancer could soon get a lot more convenient—and accessible. New research suggests that analyzing period blood for signs of human papillomavirus (HPV) is a remarkably accurate alternative to traditional screening methods, potentially expanding access to vital cancer prevention for millions.
The study, published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ), found that testing a blood sample collected on a regular sanitary pad for HPV showed ‘comparable diagnostic accuracy’ to samples collected by clinicians. Researchers tested over 3,000 participants in China between September 2021 and January 2025.
A Simpler Path to Screening?
Cervical cancer charities are optimistic about the potential of this new approach to increase screening rates. Currently, one in three women and people with a cervix don’t attend scheduled screenings, a crucial step in preventing cancer. Ideally, experts aim for an 80% participation rate to achieve the goal of eliminating cervical cancer by 2040.
Helen Hyndman, lead nurse at The Eve Appeal, a gynaecological cancers charity, explained, “While this research is in the early stages, we hope it may offer a safe, less invasive method of testing for high-risk HPV which could increase the number of women and people with a cervix taking tests.” She added that a less invasive test could be particularly helpful for individuals with physical needs, learning disabilities, cultural barriers, or those who have experienced trauma.
The potential benefits extend beyond patient comfort. Hyndman noted that this method could free up healthcare professionals’ time currently spent following up with patients who miss appointments. “The government and NHS England plan to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040, this may offer another option that supports the achieving this target,” she said.
Not a One-Size-Fits-All Solution
Athena Lamnisos, chief executive of The Eve Appeal, emphasized that this isn’t a universal solution. “The ability to test for HPV in menstrual blood isn’t the answer for everyone though. People have different barriers and concerns about screening, so being able to offer a choice of different methods could be very positive for some who are eligible for screening but don’t currently attend.”
The Chinese researchers concluded that the ‘minipad’ collecting menstrual blood demonstrated ‘comparable diagnostic accuracy to clinician collected cervical samples for HPV testing.’ During the study period, from September 2021 to January 2025, 3,068 participants aged 20 to 60 were tested using the minipads. Over 400 participants with positive screening results were referred for colposcopy and biopsy, and received their results via a dedicated mobile app.
The study further stated that HPV testing of menstrual blood collected with minipads, combined with standardized collection methods and the Early Test mobile app, could offer a practical pathway to expand access to screening.
However, the researchers acknowledged limitations, including a small sample size and a low baseline rate of cervical lesions. They also noted that the test relies on menstrual blood, excluding individuals who do not menstruate or have infrequent periods.
Jenny Greenfield, trustee and director of UK Cervical Cancer, expressed concern about inclusivity. “We are missing a huge group of women such as those who are perimenopausal or are on things like the Mirena coil, Depo-Provera or implant. They aren’t having periods and they are often provided to women from a lower socio-economic background who are the people we need to be targeted as they don’t attend appointments.”
Greenfield also raised questions about the collection method, noting that many individuals use tampons rather than pads. “Can [this be done] with a tampon?” she asked. She also underscored the importance of follow-up care, stating, “Also if someone is HPV positive, we still need to get them through the doors for a colposcopy and a smear test. Those are huge barriers.”
She added that replicating the research in diverse countries is crucial, considering that access to pads and tampons isn’t universal.
Last year, the government announced that under-screened women in England would be offered HPV self-sampling kits to detect cervical cancer at home.
- Testing period blood for HPV shows promise as a cervical cancer screening alternative.
- The method could increase screening rates by offering a more accessible and less invasive option.
- The test isn’t suitable for everyone, particularly those who don’t menstruate.
- Further research is needed to address limitations and ensure inclusivity.
Keep reading
