Cervical screening saves lives#

Having regular cervical screening tests can prevent around 90% of cervical cancers through early detection and treatment. Most people who develop cervical cancer are either overdue for screening or have never been screened. Cervical cancer often has no symptoms, especially in the early stages when changes to the cervical cells take place.

A Cervical Screening Test checks for human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that can cause cervical cancer. Screening is recommended at regular intervals even if you feel healthy or have had the HPV vaccine.

Who is eligible for cervical screening?#

Cervical screening is generally offered to women and people with a cervix who are within the recommended age range and have ever been sexually active.

If you have had a hysterectomy, discuss with your healthcare provider whether you still need a Cervical Screening Test. There may be a consultation fee for the appointment, so check with your clinic when booking if you are unsure about costs. If you are above the usual screening age, you can still ask your doctor or healthcare provider about having a test.

Even if you do not fall into the usual screening categories, see your doctor or healthcare provider as soon as possible if you have any symptoms such as abnormal vaginal bleeding, pain during sex or unusual vaginal discharge.

How do I know when I need a test?#

In many places, eligible people receive an invitation or reminder when a test is due. If you are not sure whether you are due, contact your doctor or health service. Ask them to check your screening history and when your next screening is due, and to update your personal details if needed.

What are my choices for cervical screening?#

There are two ways to do a Cervical Screening Test, and you can decide what is right for you. Both methods are equally safe and effective at detecting HPV.

Option 1: Self-collection#

Your healthcare provider gives you a swab and a private space to collect a sample of cells from your own vagina. They can explain how to do the test and help you if you need it.

Option 2: Sample collected by your healthcare provider#

Your healthcare provider uses a speculum and a small brush to take a sample of cells from your cervix. The speculum is gently inserted into the vagina to hold it open so the cervix can be seen clearly. Tell your provider if you feel any discomfort.

Whichever option you choose, the sample is sent to a laboratory for testing and your healthcare provider will let you know how you will receive your results.

Where to have your test#

Cervical Screening Tests are available from a range of services, including:

Your usual doctor
A community health center
A women’s health center
Family planning clinics
A sexual health clinic

If you prefer, you can ask for a female healthcare provider to do your test or to support you if you choose self-collection.

What does my result mean?#

Your healthcare provider will talk to you about your results and recommend what to do next. Possible outcomes include:

No HPV detected. Your results show you do not have an HPV infection, and you can return to routine screening at the recommended interval.
HPV detected on a self-collected sample. When there is an HPV infection, it is important to check whether it has caused changes to the cervical cells. Because a self-collected sample does not contain cervical cells, you are asked to return to your healthcare provider, who will collect a sample that includes cervical cells.
HPV likely to clear on its own. Your results show an HPV infection that your body is likely to clear within the next 12 months. You are asked to have a repeat test in 12 months to check the infection has gone. If it has not cleared, you may be asked to repeat the test again after another 12 months, or you may need a referral to a specialist.
HPV needing further investigation. Your results show a type of HPV infection that needs further assessment by a specialist. This does not mean you have developed cancer. You will be referred for a follow-up test known as a colposcopy. Follow the instructions from your healthcare provider carefully.

Unsatisfactory result#

An unsatisfactory result happens when the laboratory cannot properly check your sample. It does not mean anything is wrong. If you receive one, it is important to repeat the test in 6 to 12 weeks.

Always see your doctor or healthcare provider sooner if you notice any unusual changes or have any concerns.

Key points#

Cervical cancer often has no symptoms, especially in the early stages when cervical cell changes take place.
The test checks for HPV, a virus that can cause cervical cancer.
It is important to tell your healthcare provider if you experience any discomfort during the test.
When there is an HPV infection, it is important to check whether the infection has caused changes to the cervical cells.
If you have an unsatisfactory test result, it is important to repeat the test in 6 to 12 weeks.

Cervical screening