Menstrual Blood as a Diagnostic Tool for HPV and Genital Infections

Menstrual blood could be a promising diagnostic tool in women&rsquo;s health, as demonstrated by a recent study from Hong Kong Adventist Hospital. The researchers successfully detected human papillomavirus DNA in the menstrual blood of infected women, as well as abnormalities associated with genital tract infections and increased risk for cervical cancer.&nbsp;
Genital tract infections (GTIs) and human papillomavirus (HPV) infections are common in women of all age groups. Yet, barriers in testing mean these infections can often go undiagnosed. Many women may not consider themselves at risk of GTI and HPV infections or understand the benefits of such tests. Moreover, in the standard Pap smear test, women may feel extremely uncomfortable having a swab inserted into their vagina, especially for those who have sexual trauma.&nbsp;