A menstrual pad that doubles as a diagnostic tool, Q-Pad makes for easy at-home blood testing

Having a blood sample drawn can be unpleasant, a hassle and downright terrifying for those who fear needles. Meanwhile, everyone who menstruates collects blood every month. California-based startup Qvin is tapping into that natural process with Q-Pad, a menstrual pad that functions as a medical testing device and has just been cleared by the FDA.

Q-Pad is an organic cotton pad holding a removable strip. Once enough blood has been collected in the pad, the user takes out the strip and sends it to a certified laboratory for clinical testing. Results are provided through Qvin's app. The current FDA clearance is for an A1c test kit that measures a person's average blood sugar over three months — a key health indicator for pre-diabetes and diabetes.

Other tests are in the works: Dr. Paul Blumenthal, Professor Emeritus of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Stanford University, says: "For instance, women seeking to understand their fertility status can soon monitor various reproductive hormones via menstrual blood using the Q-Pad. In addition, published research indicates that the Q-Pad could be a convenient, user-friendly, and efficient way of screening for the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) as part of global cervical cancer prevention efforts."

Early-access priced at USD 39, Q-Pad is available for preordering now, with shipping to follow early 2024.