Menstrual Blood Test Could Simplify HPV Screening
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By
February 13, 2026
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3 min
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1
Menstrual blood can be used to test for high-risk HPV.
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2
Study involved over 3,000 menstruating women.
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3
Non-invasive method may increase screening accessibility.
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4
High negative predictive value for serious disease.
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5
Study suggests integration into existing diagnostic pathways.
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6
Addresses barriers to traditional HPV testing.
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7
Compatible with current HPV DNA testing platforms.
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A community-based study in China demonstrates that testing menstrual blood collected on sanitary pads can accurately detect high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV), comparable to clinician-collected cervical samples. This non-invasive method could enhance cervical cancer screening, especially in low-resource settings where barriers like discomfort with pelvic exams exist. The study supports menstrual blood testing as a viable alternative that aligns with women's natural physiology, and shows potential to improve screening coverage without compromising diagnostic accuracy.
-
1
Menstrual blood can be used to test for high-risk HPV.
-
2
Study involved over 3,000 menstruating women.
-
3
Non-invasive method may increase screening accessibility.
-
4
High negative predictive value for serious disease.
-
5
Study suggests integration into existing diagnostic pathways.
-
6
Addresses barriers to traditional HPV testing.
-
7
Compatible with current HPV DNA testing platforms.
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