Researchers say a menstrual blood test could offer a convenient alternative to cervical screening.
A sanitary pad with a sample strip can detect HPV, the virus causing most cervical cancers.
Women could use the test at home without invasive procedures.
Researchers published the findings in BMJ.
The study involved more than 3,000 women in Hubei, China.
Researchers compared menstrual blood samples with clinician-collected cervical samples.
The pad-based test detected serious cervical abnormalities with 94.7% sensitivity.
This result matched the accuracy of clinician-collected samples.
Specificity was slightly lower, but negative results were equally reliable.
Referral rates for follow-up testing were also similar.
Researchers said the test could replace or supplement current screening methods.
They stressed the approach was non-invasive and standardised.
Cancer Research UK said the findings were encouraging but preliminary.
Experts called for larger and more diverse trials.
Eve Appeal welcomed the potential for gentler screening options.
They noted the method would not suit everyone, including menopausal women.
