Cervical screening (a smear test) checks the health of your cervix. The cervix is the opening of your womb accessed through your vagina. It is not a test for cancer, it is a test to help prevent cancer and identify early warning cells.
When will you be invited for cervical screening?
You will receive a letter in the post inviting you to make an appointment.
The ages you are invited
| Age |
When you are invited |
| under 25 up to 6 months |
Before you turn 25 |
| 25 to 49 |
Every 3 years |
| 50 to 64 |
Every 5 years |
| 65 or older |
Only if 1 of your last 3 tests was abnormal |
What happens during the appointment
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.
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 then checked for any changes in the cells of your cervix. These can then be treated before they get a chance to turn into cervical cancer.
It is best to book an appointment for a time when you are not having a period and / or have finished treatment for unusual vaginal discharge or a pelvic infection.
For a video on how cervical screening is carried out and for more information please follow the link: www.nhs.uk/conditions/cervical-screening/what-happens-at-your-appointment
Results
You will get your results by letter, usually in 2 weeks. It will explain what happens next. If you have waited longer than expected, call your GP surgery to see if they have any updates.
Further help and support with cervical screening
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