Cervical screening, which used to be called smear test, is a way of preventing cervical cancer. It is not a test for cancer. It tests for a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV).
High risk HPV can cause cell changes in the cervix, which may develop into cancer over time. But not all cell changes will develop into cancer. So, it's important to monitor any changes and give treatment if necessary. Nearly all cases of cervical cancer are linked to high-risk HPV.
Cervical screening uses HPV primary screening. During the test, a nurse or doctor uses a small soft brush to take a sample of cells from the cervix. They send this sample to the laboratory. The cervical cells are first tested for the HPV virus. If high risk HPV is found, the laboratory will test the sample for cell changes. Find out more on abnormal cervical cells: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cervical-cancer/abnormal-cervical-cells
Who can have cervical screening?
Cervical screening is free for anyone with a cervix from age 25 to 64. You need to be registered with a GP to get your screening invitations. You get an invite every 3 to 5 years depending on where you live and your age. You may get your first invitation for screening in the 6 months before you turn 25. If this happens you can book an appointment. You don’t have to wait for your 25th birthday.
For England and Northern Ireland – you get an invite every 3 years if you are aged 25 to 49. After that, you get an invite every 5 years until age 64.
For Wales and Scotland – you get an invite every 5 years if you are aged 25 to 64.
If you are over 65 and have never had cervical screening, you can request this. You can do this via your GP or a clinic that provides cervical screening.
Cervical screening is a choice
It's your choice if you want to go for cervical screening. But cervical screening is one of the best ways to protect you from cervical cancer.
Getting support with cervical screening
You may need more help and support with cervical screening for many reasons. Speak to the GP surgery if you have questions about cervical screening invitations, results or any symptoms you have.
For furthermore information check: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cervical-screening/
Getting support with cervical screening
You may need more help and support with cervical screening for many reasons. Speak to the GP surgery if you have questions about cervical screening invitations, results or any symptoms you have.
For furthermore information check: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cervical-screening/
