2. Cervical screening (smear test)
What is cervical screening?
Cervical screening (smear test) checks the health of your cervix. The cervix is the opening to your womb from your vagina.
It is not a test for cancer, it’s a test to help prevent cancer. All women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64 should be invited by letter. If you are aged 25-49 screening should be carried out every 3 years. If you are 50-64 screening should be carried out every 5 years.
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 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.
When will you be screened?
You'll be sent an invitation letter in the post when it's time to book your cervical screening appointment.
Age
|
When you’re 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
|
You can book an appointment as soon as you get a letter. If you missed your last cervical screening, you do not need to wait for a letter to book an appointment.
What happens if I had my cervical screening done in another country?
If your last cervical screening test was done outside of England or Wales you will need to provide proof of the test result by email or by bringing to your practice so this can be added to your medical record.
How to book an appointment?
All cervical smear appointments are bookable online via the NHS App or Patient Access (ask your reception team for details. You will need to supply photo ID, or download the NHS app from your usual app store). Alternatively, click here to find the most suitable option for you.
Red flag symptoms
As well as going for screening you still need to be aware of any unusual symptoms, as they may be signs of cervical cancer. Although also common in other conditions the following could be signs of cervical cancer and should be checked out by your GP as soon as possible.
- abnormal bleeding (such as bleeding between periods)
- vaginal discharge that smells unpleasant
- pain during sex
Symptoms of cervical cancer
More information and advice
Information for people with learning disabilities