How cervical screening helps prevent cancer
Cervical screening checks the health of your cervix and helps find any abnormal changes before they can turn into cancer.
It’s not a test for cancer, it’s a test to help prevent cancer.
Cervical screening checks a sample of cells from your cervix for certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV).
These types of HPV can cause abnormal changes to the cells in your cervix and are called “high risk” types of HPV.
If high risk types of HPV are found during screening, the sample of cells is also checked for abnormal cell changes.
If abnormal cells are found, they can be treated so they do not get a chance to turn into cervical cancer.
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cervical-screening
To book your cervical screening appointment please contact the surgery.
Who should have cervical screening
All women and people with a cervix between the ages of 25 and 64 should go for regular cervical screening.
| Age | When you should have cervical screening |
|---|---|
| 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 a recent test was abnormal |
To book your cervical screening appointment please contact the surgery.
Changes to the NHS Cervical Screening Programme
On 11 June, NHS England issued a letter announcing changes to the NHS Cervical Screening Programme.
Extended screening intervals
From 1 July 2025, routine cervical screening intervals will be extended from 3 to 5 years for participants aged 25-49 who test negative after attending screening on or after this date.
All cervical screening samples taken in England are now tested for high-risk HPV (Human Papilloma Virus), which is more accurate than the previous method of cytology testing (known as a ‘smear test’). Studies have shown that if a person tests negative for HPV, they are extremely unlikely to go on to develop cervical cancer within 10 years.
Those whose sample indicates the presence of HPV, or who have a recent history of HPV, will continue to be invited to more frequent screenings.
Digitalisation of cervical screening correspondence
The NHS has rolled-out digital invitations and reminders for cervical screening via the NHS App. Eligible women will receive a notification through the app, followed by a text message if the notification isn’t opened. Letters will remain in place for those who need them.
Please find below some useful information regarding the cervical screening programme.
