Rethinking What We Throw Away
There exists a biological resource so rich in proteins and stem cells it could unlock earlier diagnoses for conditions like endometriosis, PCOS, and even uterine cancer. Yet, this resource is quietly discarded every single month by millions of people.
In her inspiring TED Talk, Karli Büchling challenges us to rethink menstrual blood, not as waste, but as a source of scientific insight. With over 800 unique proteins and the presence of stem cells, menstrual blood could offer a new frontier for biomedical research and diagnostic innovation. Yet, despite its promise, it’s one of the most under-researched materials in medical science.
The Science Behind the Sample
Menstrual blood is uniquely valuable because it contains endometrial cells, hormones, immune cells, and stem cells. These components can offer insight into not only reproductive health but also broader immune and hormonal conditions. Unlike traditional diagnostic samples, menstrual blood can be collected non-invasively and regularly, opening the door for earlier and easier disease detection.
A Bold Idea Takes the Stage
Karli proposes something bold: a menstrual blood biobank. A way for individuals to contribute samples from the comfort of their homes and participate in meaningful research that could reshape the landscape of women’s health. Her talk is a rallying cry to close the gender health gap that has persisted for centuries.
A Stark Research Imbalance
To put things into perspective: over 15,000 studies have been conducted on sperm. Fewer than 400 exist on menstrual blood. The imbalance is stark, and the implications are wide-reaching. Conditions like endometriosis, which affects 1 in 10 women and can take up to eight years to diagnose, could potentially be detected far earlier through menstrual blood-based diagnostics.
Bridging the Gender Health Gap
Karli’s vision aligns with a broader global call to close the gender health gap, an issue recognized by researchers, clinicians, and policymakers alike. Her TED Talk adds a crucial voice to that momentum.
Why This Matters to Us
As a diagnostics company, we believe in supporting ideas that have the power to advance healthcare for everyone. While we played a small role during Karli’s TED Talk, our support reflects a shared belief: menstrual blood deserves far more scientific attention than it currently receives.
We hope this talk inspires continued research, partnerships, and innovation in women’s health. If you’re a researcher, policymaker, or innovator exploring this area, we’d love to stay in conversation.
Watch the Talk
Karli’s idea is accessible, innovative, and deeply necessary. We strongly encourage you to watch her TED Talk and consider how something so routine could become revolutionary.
🎥 Watch Karli Büchling’s TED Talk here: https://youtu.be/q3_AS6GM2Cs?si=pQaSZFiiDuGRyN5a
At GADx, we support bold thinking that opens new frontiers in diagnostics. Let’s keep this conversation going.