Period blood test could be an alternative to cervical screening

A study suggests a test of menstrual blood might be explored as an alternative to conventional cervical screening, and charities called the finding encouraging. The NHS is already sending at-home vaginal swab kits in some areas to people who have missed screening, with wider distribution planned this year.

Researchers have reported that a test using menstrual blood could be explored as an alternative way to detect markers related to cervical screening. Charities described the finding as encouraging and said gentler testing could improve access, while noting the research is still at an early stage. The NHS is already sending at-home vaginal swab kits in parts of England to people who have missed several screening appointments, with a wider rollout planned later this year. In the UK, cervical screening is offered every five years to people aged 25 to 64 to check for high‑risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). What is known: - The study suggests menstrual (period) blood testing might be investigated as another approach to the signals used in cervical screening, but the research is preliminary. - The NHS currently sends DIY vaginal swab kits to some people who have missed screening appointments, and plans broader distribution this year. - Cervical screening is offered every five years for people aged 25–64 and looks for high‑risk HPV types that can lead to cancer. - Around five million people are not up to date with cervical screening in the UK, and missed appointments are more common among younger people, those with disabilities, some ethnic minority communities, and some LGBT+ groups. - Charities and advocates note that screening can be difficult for some people for reasons including past traumatic experiences, menopause, physical or learning disabilities, and cultural barriers. Summary: Charities said a menstrual blood test is an encouraging possibility because a less invasive option could help reach people who avoid current screening methods. Research remains at an early stage, and the timeline for any clinical use is undetermined at this time.