Benefits and risks

What to weigh up before deciding whether to take part.

Please read this alongside the Participant Information Sheet, which has the full details.

Possible benefits

There may be no direct benefit to you. But your sample will help us understand periods and heavy periods, which could lead to better tests and treatments in future.

As a thank you, you’ll receive a £30 voucher to reimburse you for your time donating period blood. If you choose to donate a biopsy, you’ll receive an additional £30 voucher for the extra time and travel involved. Every participant also receives a smart menstrual cup as part of the study kit, along with a subscription for the smart cup app.

Possible risks and discomforts

Using a menstrual cup usually comes without any risk. However, in very rare cases, similar to using tampons, Toxic Shock Syndrome can occur (TSS). TSS symptoms include a high temperature, muscle aches, a raised skin rash that feels like sandpaper and flu-like symptoms. If you experience any of these symptoms while using the menstrual cup, remove the cup immediately and contact your medical provider or 111.

If you are unfamiliar with menstrual cups, using one for the first time might cause some discomfort until you find a good way of placing and removing it correctly. Each menstrual cup comes with a leaflet that contains information on how to use it.

Taking part is your choice

Whether or not you take part won’t affect your care. You can withdraw at any time.