Researchers say a menstrual blood test could provide a simple alternative to cervical screening.
The test uses a sanitary pad with a blood sample strip to detect HPV at home.
HPV causes most cases of cervical cancer.
The method could help women who avoid clinician-based screening.
Researchers in China compared menstrual blood with clinician-collected cervical samples.
The study involved more than 3,000 women with regular menstrual cycles.
Results were published in BMJ.
The pad-based test detected serious cervical cell changes with 94.7% sensitivity.
This matched the accuracy of clinician-collected samples.
Referral rates for further testing were also similar.
Researchers said the method could replace or complement current screening.
Cancer Research UK called the approach promising but said more trials were needed.
Experts stressed the test may not suit everyone, including menopausal women.
Eve Appeal welcomed the option as a gentler, potentially life-saving alternative.
