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.
What is Cervical Screening?
- All women aged 25 to 64 are invited by letter to cervical screening (a smear test) to check the health of their cervix. If you are between 25 and 49 you will be invited every 3 years. If you are between 50 and 64 you will be invited every 5 years.
- 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.
Why is Cervical Screening is so important?
How do I book a Cervical Screening?
Please contact the surgery or request an appointment online if you are looking to book a screening or if you have been invited to.
The screening should be quick and done within one of our 15-minute appointment slots and will be done by a Female clinician.