What is the screening test?
Cervical screening is a free NHS test in England. It checks the health of the cervix (the opening to the womb). The sample is tested for HPV (a very common virus).
Why is it done?
HPV can sometimes cause cell changes over time. Screening helps find HPV and cell changes early, so they can be treated before cancer develops.
Who can do it?
In England, people with a cervix are invited from 25 to 64 years old.
Most people are invited every 5 years. If HPV is found, you may be invited again sooner.
Why should I take part?
It helps prevent cervical cancer by finding changes early. Most people have a normal result. HPV is common. Having HPV does not mean you have cancer.
What happens during the test?
You book an appointment at your GP practice, a female nurse uses a small soft brush to take a sample from the cervix. It takes a few minutes. It can feel uncomfortable, but it should not take long.
You get your result often by letter, or sometimes also in the NHS App depending on your settings.
If no HPV is found
You have a HPV Negative result. You will be invited for screening again in 5 years
If HPV is found
This does not mean you have cancer. The lab will also check for cell changes.
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If there are no cell changes, you may be invited again sooner to check again.
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If there are cell changes, you may be offered a hospital appointment for a closer look (colposcopy).
If you receive a diagnosis
A specialist team will explain what it means and what happens next. You will be offered the right treatment and support for you.
For more information visit the NHS page Cervical screening - NHS
It is ok to have worries or concerns before attending for your cervical screening. If you are worried or have had a difficult test before, tell the practice when you book, they can help
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Try to book your test when you are not on your period
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If you can, avoid sex, vaginal creams / medicines, and using lube inside the vagina for about 24 hours before your test as these can sometimes affect the sample
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Wear clothes that are easy to pull up such as a skirt or dress, or take off from the waist down like a loose trousers or leggings.
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You will undress privately behind a curtain and then provided with a sheet to cover up your waist
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You can ask for what you need, like:
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a chaperone (someone to be with you)
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a longer appointment
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to stop for a break at any time
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a smaller speculum (the plastic / metal instrument)
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