This article discusses a new menstrual blood test that could provide a different way to screen for cervical cancer. Researchers have developed a sanitary pad equipped with a special sample strip that women can use at home. This test detects the HPV virus, which is responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases.

A study conducted in China involving 3,068 women found that the pad test was just as accurate at finding specific cell abnormalities as samples collected by doctors in a clinic. Health experts believe this research shows great promise for making cancer screenings easier to access. However, they caution that it is still early and that larger clinical trials are necessary. They also noted that this method is not a universal solution, as it would not work for everyone, including women who have reached menopause.