A better future for women’s health - one period at a time.
About the study
What are we studying?
We’re collecting menstrual blood samples from people across the U.S. to better understand how menstrual effluent (period blood) changes with age and other factors.
Our goal is to uncover key biological insights that could lead to better diagnostics and treatments for women’s health.
Why does this matter?
What’s been dismissed for decades may hold the key to earlier, easier, and more equitable health solutions.
Who is leading this study?
We’re a team of researchers at the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, dedicated to advancing women’s health through innovative, community-driven science.
Ready to join the study?
Check if you're eligible below — it only takes a minute.
You’re eligible to participate if you are:
Currently menstruating
Living in the U.S.
Able to receive and return a kit (we cover shipping)
If you meet the criteria, click “Join the Study” to get started.
You’ll be directed to our secure REDCap study site, where you’ll complete a brief eligibility form and consent form before receiving your kit.
Your sample. Your story. Your impact.
What taking part looks like—step by step:
Privacy and Security
We take your privacy seriously.
Your data is securely stored and coded — your name is never attached to your sample.
Only the approved study team can access your information.
You can withdraw at any time. Your data will never be linked to your identity in publications or shared results.
Contact Us
Whether you’re a participant with more questions or a research team interested in our work, feel free to email us and we will get back to you!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Menstrual effluent (period blood) is a complex mixture of blood, vaginal secretions, and shed tissue from the uterus.
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Yes — participation is safe, and we don’t expect any physical discomfort.
Our surveys may ask about sensitive topics, but you can always skip any questions you’re not comfortable answering. -
Yes! We just ask that you use the provided menstrual pad to collect your sample for the study.
Afterward, you can go right back to using your menstrual cup or whatever product you normally prefer. -
You’re free to stop participating at any time — no pressure, no questions asked.
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Yes — you’ll receive a $20 digital gift card after completing the study as a thank you for your time and contribution.
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Yes — you must live in the United States and have a valid U.S. shipping address to take part in the study.
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Your sample will be processed in our lab to study patterns in epigenetics (like DNA methylation). We combine your data with others to explore how menstrual health varies across individuals.
All samples are coded and de-identified — your name is never attached to your sample. Since samples are coded, we do not return individual results to study participants.