Researchers say menstrual blood testing could provide a convenient alternative to cervical cancer screening.
A sanitary pad fitted with a blood sample strip can detect human papillomavirus, which causes most cervical cancers.
Women could use the test at home instead of attending a clinic.
The study, published in BMJ, analysed data from more than 3,000 women in China.
Researchers compared menstrual blood samples with clinician-collected cervical samples.
The pad-based test showed similar accuracy in detecting serious cervical cell abnormalities.
Scientists say the method could help reach women who avoid traditional screening.
However, experts stress the approach remains in early research stages.
Cancer Research UK welcomed the innovation but called for larger trials.
Eve Appeal said offering more screening choices could save lives.
