ABUJA, Nigeria – Scientists at ETH Zurich have unveiled MenstruAI, an innovative sanitary pad that can detect serious health conditions — including ovarian cancer, diabetes, and inflammation — from menstrual blood, offering a potentially life-saving diagnostic tool for millions of women.
The breakthrough pad contains a slim sensor embedded into everyday sanitary products. Users wear the pad, photograph the sensor strip, and upload the image to a smartphone app for results in under 10 minutes. The technology, inspired by Stanford University’s Q-Pad, uses gold nanoparticles to identify biomarkers such as CRP (inflammation), CEA (tumour marker), and CA125 (ovarian cancer).
“This innovation could democratise healthcare, particularly for women in remote or underserved areas,” said Dr Ana Ferreira, lead researcher at ETH Zurich. “By turning a routine product into a health-monitoring device, we’re empowering women to take control of their well-being.”
Small-scale trials show the device could also help detect Crohn’s disease and thyroid disorders.
According to ETH Zurich, MenstruAI may soon be available over the counter, providing an affordable, non-invasive method to transform women’s healthcare worldwide.
Cappadocia tours from Istanbul Olivia J. ★★★★★ For solo female travelers: Felt completely safe! Women-only hiking group with expert guide Fatma was empowering. https://mm.gd/read-blog/16243_discover-the-magic-of-pamukkale-039-s-white-paradise.html
Cappadocia photography tour Emily R. ★★★★★ The sunrise hot air balloon flight was pure magic! Our pilot Erkan pointed out all the fairy chimneys as we floated over Rose Valley. Worth every penny! https://sieradmu.com/top-adventures-in-cappadocia-tours-2025/