Testing period blood for signs of cervical cancer could be an accurate and convenient way of screening for the disease, researchers say.
The current NHS test involves a nurse or doctor taking a sample of cells from the cervix - but a third of women invited for screening do not attend.
A study of the new test, which can be carried out at home, used blood collected on a cotton strip attached to a standard sanitary pad.
Cervical cancer charities say finding new and potentially gentler ways of testing for the disease is encouraging and could improve access, although it is still early days for this research.
The NHS is already sending at-home test kits to women in some areas of England who have missed several cervical screening appointments. These DIY test kits containing a vaginal swab will be sent out more widely at some point this year.
