In a groundbreaking move, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has, for the first time, approved a cervical cancer screening device that can be used entirely at home. The device, called the Teal Wand, empowers patients to self-collect cervical samples and mail them to a lab for professional analysis—offering the same level of clinical testing typically done in a doctor’s office.
This FDA-approved cervical cancer screening device marks a major milestone in preventive healthcare. Developed by Teal Health, the Teal Wand is a prescription-based at-home kit that includes a self-collection tool and virtual access to licensed medical providers. These providers review test results with users, ensuring both convenience and care continuity.
The kit will first be available in California starting in June. It’s designed to remove one of the most common barriers to early cervical cancer detection: the discomfort or anxiety many feel about undergoing traditional pap smears in clinical settings.
Teal Health Raises $23M to Bring Innovation to Women’s Health
Teal Health’s innovative approach has not gone unnoticed in the investment world. In January, the company announced a $10 million seed extension round, bringing its total funding to $23 million. The round included prominent investors like Serena Ventures, Chelsea Clinton, Emerson Collective, and Forerunner Ventures.
The company’s mission centers around reimagining how women engage with healthcare, starting with the entry point of cervical cancer screening. “Cervical cancer screenings are the most important and often the entry point to a woman’s health relationship,” said Kara Egan, co-founder and CEO of Teal Health. She emphasized the urgency of access, noting, “More than 1 in 4 women are currently behind on this life-saving screening.”
Cervical cancer rates have significantly declined in recent decades thanks to increased screening and prevention. Still, too many individuals fall behind on regular checkups due to barriers like embarrassment, fear, lack of time, or limited access to providers. Teal Health is addressing these challenges head-on with its FDA-approved solution.
How the Teal Wand Works and Why It Matters
The Teal Wand Kit includes everything a patient needs to perform the screening at home. Users collect their own cervical sample using the specially designed device, then send it to a lab using a prepaid mailer. Once results are processed, a virtual consultation is offered so that patients can understand their results and plan any next steps if needed.
This home-based solution doesn’t just offer convenience—it’s about reaching those who might otherwise skip screenings altogether. According to the American Cancer Society, regular screening has drastically reduced cervical cancer incidence, making early detection critical.
This FDA-approved cervical cancer screening device holds particular promise for underserved communities, rural populations, or people with limited access to OB-GYN services. By removing logistical and emotional barriers, the Teal Wand aims to make preventive care more equitable and accessible.
The launch in California this June is expected to be the first step in a broader national rollout. If the pilot proves successful, it could reshape how millions of women engage with preventive reproductive health services.
As digital health continues to expand, FDA-approved home screening solutions like the Teal Wand represent a future where medical testing becomes more personalized, private, and proactive.
