Cervical Screening

Cervical screening (a smear test) is a test to check the health of the cervix and help prevent cervical cancer. It’s offered to women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64.

• All women aged 25 to 64 are invited by letter to cervical screening (a smear test) to check the health of their cervix.
• Everyone with a cervix should go for cervical screening.
• The cervix is the opening to your womb from your vagina.
• It’s not a test for cancer, it’s a test to help prevent cancer.
• During the screening appointment, a small sample of cells will be taken from your cervix.
• The sample is checked for certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) that can cause changes to the cells of your cervix. These are called “high risk” types of HPV.
• If these types of HPV are not found, you do not need any further tests.
• If these types of HPV are found, the sample is checked for any changes in the cells of your cervix. These can be treated before they get a chance to turn into cervical cancer.
• The nurse or doctor will tell you when you can expect your results letter.

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