Quick answer
What is cervical screening?
Cervical screening is a test that checks for high-risk HPV and abnormal cells in the cervix, helping to prevent cervical cancer. Women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64 are invited every 3 to 5 years. The test itself takes only a few minutes at a GP surgery or clinic.
What cervical screening is for
Cervical screening is designed to detect high-risk HPV and any early changes in the cells of the cervix. Finding and treating these changes early helps to prevent cervical cancer from developing.
What happens at a cervical screening appointment
During the appointment, a nurse takes a small sample of cells from your cervix. Your results are usually sent to you by letter a few weeks later.
Understanding your cervical screening results
If your result is HPV negative, you will be invited back for routine screening at your usual interval. If your result is HPV positive, you may be referred for a colposcopy to look at the cervix more closely.
What to do between cervical screenings
Report any abnormal bleeding to your GP promptly rather than waiting for your next invitation. Screening is not a substitute for getting new symptoms checked between appointments.
Common questions about the cervical screening
- Does cervical screening hurt?
- Most people feel some brief discomfort as the speculum is inserted and the sample is taken, but it is usually tolerable. Tell the nurse if you find it painful, as they can often make you more comfortable.
- What happens if my HPV result is positive?
- If HPV is found, you may be offered a colposcopy, which is a closer examination of the cervix. Any abnormal cells that are found can be treated to prevent them developing into cancer.
- Do I still need cervical screening after a hysterectomy?
- It depends on whether your cervix was removed during the hysterectomy. Your care team can advise you, and you should follow the NHS guidance you are given.
- Do I still need cervical screening if I have had the HPV vaccine?
- Yes, you still need cervical screening even if you have been vaccinated. The HPV vaccine does not cover every type of HPV, so screening remains important.