Innovative Device Analyzes Menstrual Blood for Health Indicators

Scientists have created a groundbreaking wearable device that easily, rapidly, and non-invasively analyzes key health indicators using menstrual blood. This low-cost technology has the potential to transform women’s healthcare.

However, as life continues to move faster, the need for quick and convenient health check methods is growing. In the realm of women’s health, menstrual blood has traditionally been dismissed as a waste product with no diagnostic value.

Innovative Wearable Uses Menstrual Blood for Health Monitoring

That perception is now being challenged thanks to a new innovation. Researchers at ETH Zurich have created MenstruAI, a pioneering wearable device that detects key health biomarkers in menstrual blood—quickly, easily, non-invasively, and directly from the sanitary pad it attaches to.

“Menstrual blood has traditionally been viewed as waste,” said Lucas Dosnon, lead author and PhD candidate at ETH Zurich’s Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering. “We’re demonstrating that it holds valuable diagnostic information. Bold projects like this are essential to shift outdated mindsets and give women’s health the attention it truly deserves.”

However, the team first developed a wearable lateral flow assay (LFA) platform—a cost-effective, paper-based diagnostic tool commonly used for rapid testing. Their device targets three biomarkers critical to women’s health: C-reactive protein (CRP), a sign of inflammation or infection; CEA, linked to gynecological cancers; and CA-125, often elevated in cases of endometriosis.

Simple Visual and App-Based Analysis for Biomarker Detection

When a biomarker in the menstrual blood binds with its matching antibody on the test strip, a colored signal appears. The strength of the color reflects the biomarker’s concentration—the darker the color, the higher the level. Users can interpret the result visually or snap a photo with a smartphone and use a custom app for a more detailed analysis.

“The app can detect even subtle variations, such as protein levels, and provides a measurable, objective result,” Dosnon explained.

Creating a device that could operate independently—without relying on an app—was a top priority for the research team.

“From the very beginning, our goal was to design a solution that could be used even in areas with limited healthcare access, while keeping it as affordable as possible to support population-wide screening,” said Inge Herrmann, PhD, corresponding author and head of The Ingenuity Lab Zurich.

MenstruAI Matches Lab Test Accuracy in Early Trials

When tested with unprocessed menstrual blood, MenstruAI demonstrated the same level of accuracy as tests using venous blood samples. The team’s next step is to evaluate its performance in a larger group to see if it’s practical for daily use and whether its results match those of conventional lab tests.

Importantly, the researchers stress that MenstruAI is not intended to replace standard diagnostics. Instead, it serves as an “early alert” system that could prompt users to seek professional medical advice. They also hope the device will help reduce the stigma surrounding menstruation and promote more inclusive healthcare.

“MenstruAI has the potential to transform women’s health by offering a non-invasive, affordable, and accessible way to monitor health—democratizing care and improving equity,” the researchers said.

Read the original article on: New Atlas

Read more: Immune Resilience Key to Healthy Aging