Cervical screening

Cervical screening is a way of preventing cervical cancer. It is not a test for cancer. It tests for a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV). This screening is for anyone with a cervix from age 25 to 64. This includes women and some trans men and non-binary people assigned female at birth.

What is cervical screening?

Cervical screening uses HPV primary screening. The cervical cells are first of all tested for the HPV virus. If high risk HPV is found, the laboratory will test the sample for cell changes.

Your cervical screening appointment

You can choose whether to go for cervical screening. There are some things you might want to think about to help prepare for your appointment.

Cervical screening results

You usually get your cervical screening results in the post. It can take from 2 to 6 weeks. Most people have a normal screening test result.

Last reviewed: 
27 Nov 2024
Next review due: 
26 Nov 2027