Smear Only

What is it?

Cervical screening, which used to be called smear test, is a test to check the health of the cervix and help prevent cervical cancer. It's offered to women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64.

  • Everyone with a cervix aged 25 to 64 are invited by letter to cervical screening to check the health of their cervix. 
  • Everyone with a cervix should go for cervical screening.
  • The cervix is the opening to your womb from your vagina.
  • It's not a test for cancer, it's a test to help prevent cancer.
  • 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. 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 checked for any changes in the cells of your cervix. These can be treated before they get a chance to turn into cervical cancer.
  • The nurse or doctor will tell you when you can expect your results letter.

 

Video: how cervical screening is done

This video shows someone having cervical screening. It shows an illustrated view of the inside of the body and explains what happens during the test.

DO BOOK IF:

✓ You have received your letter of invitation. If you haven't received this, the lab will not process your test so it is important to wait for this. 

 

DO NOT BOOK IF:

⊘ You haven't received your letter of invitation. If you haven't received this, the lab will not process your test so it is important to wait for this. 

⊘ The date you are booking means you will be on or having your period. We know sometimes this can be unpredictable so please do not worry if you start your period near your appointment date and need to cancel. Please rebook for when you will have finished your period as we cannot take the smear test when you are bleeding. 

⊘ You have given birth, had a miscarriage, termination of pregnancy or any other procedure that involves your cervix in the last 12 weeks. Please wait until 12 weeks have passed before the appointment date.