Regular cervical screening is one of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer. The Cervical Screening Test (CST) looks for human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes almost all cervical cancers.
For most people aged 25–74, cervical screening is recommended every five years if your previous result was normal.
30-45 MINUTE APPOINTMENT
For most people who are due for routine cervical screening, you can choose to collect your own vaginal sample using a simple swab in privacy at the practice.
Self-collected samples are almost as accurate at detecting HPV as clinician-collected samples. Your GP can explain how to take the sample and answer any questions beforehand.
One advantage of having a clinician-collected sample from the outset is that cervical cells are collected at the same time. If certain types of HPV are detected, the laboratory can proceed directly to examining these cells if required, rather than asking you to return for another cervical sample.
With a self-collected sample, if HPV is detected, you may need to return for a clinician-collected cervical sample or further assessment depending on the result.
Self-collection is designed for cervical screening, not for investigating symptoms.
If you have symptoms such as bleeding between periods, bleeding after sex, bleeding after menopause, unusual vaginal discharge or other concerning symptoms, we recommend an appointment with your GP for assessment rather than relying on a self-collected screening test.
Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend an examination, a clinician-collected cervical sample, other swabs, blood tests, imaging or further investigation.
Your GP can check when your next cervical screening test is due and discuss which collection option is right for you.
If you’ve been putting off cervical screening because you’ve found previous examinations uncomfortable or difficult, self-collection may make screening much easier. Please speak with us — we’re happy to help you find an approach you’re comfortable with.
