Who Needs Cervical Screening?

Last updated: 9 September 2026

Find out who needs cervical screening, the screening options available, and what happens during a cervical sample.

Do I Need To Have A Cervical Screening?

If you are aged between 25 and 69, have ever been sexually active and have a cervix, you should have regular cervical screening.

Most people need screening every five years when their test does not find HPV. Some people may need screening or follow-up more frequently, depending on their previous results or medical history. Your healthcare provider can advise you on the right screening schedule for you.

You still need screening if you have only had one sexual partner or have not been sexually active for a long time. You also need screening if you have been through menopause or have had the HPV vaccine.

If you are aged 20–24 and have already commenced cervical screening, you should attend your next indicated screening or follow-up appointment. Check with your healthcare provider if you are unsure when your next test is due.

If you are aged 70–74 and have never had screening, talk to your healthcare provider about having a screening test. You should also talk to them if you have not had regular screening. Your healthcare provider can advise you on any screening you need before leaving the programme.

An HPV Self-Test or Cervical Sample

You now have a choice about how you collect your cervical screening sample.

For most people, there are two options:

An HPV self-test: You can collect the sample yourself in private. You can also ask a health professional to help you.

A cervical sample: A trained health professional collects a sample from your cervix. People previously called this a smear test.

Both options can test for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). This virus causes most cervical cancers.

Some people need a cervical sample rather than an HPV self-test. This may depend on their screening history or other medical needs. Your healthcare provider can help you choose the right option.

Find out more about your screening options.

It is normal to feel nervous about cervical screening. If you need a cervical sample, your healthcare provider can explain what will happen and discuss ways to make the appointment more comfortable for you.

What Happens During A Cervical Sample?

Collecting a cervical sample usually takes just a few minutes, although your appointment may take around 15 minutes.

Your healthcare provider will ask you to lie on an examination bed in a private area. They will gently use a speculum to help them see your cervix, which is the neck of the womb. They will then use a soft brush to collect a small sample of cells from the surface of your cervix.

If you are having a cervical sample for routine HPV screening, the laboratory will first test it for high-risk HPV. If the test finds HPV, the laboratory can also check the cells for changes.

If an HPV self-test has already found HPV, you may need a cervical sample as a follow-up. The laboratory may use this sample to check for cell changes.

You may feel some pressure or discomfort during the procedure, but everyone’s experience is different. If it hurts, let your healthcare provider know. You can ask questions, request a break or ask for the procedure to stop at any time.

Tips For Your Cervical Sample Appointment

• Wear clothing on your bottom half that is easy to take on and off, or a skirt you can simply pull up and leave on.
• Use the sheet or blanket provided to keep yourself covered and comfortable.
• Ask for someone you feel comfortable with to take your sample.
• Ask for someone from your culture to take your sample.
• Try to breathe deeply and relax your legs.
• Some people find lying on their side more comfortable.
• Take a friend or family member with you for support.
• Plan to get your screening done with a friend and have a meal afterwards as a reward!

If you have had a difficult screening experience before, or are worried about pain or discomfort, let your healthcare provider know. They can discuss options to help make the appointment more comfortable for you.

HPV and Cervical Cancer

Find out more about the symptoms, risks and prevention of cervical cancer and HPV.

Your screening test results

Learn what your HPV screening test results mean and what happens if you need more testing or treatment.

Why have regular screening tests?

Regular cervical screening is one of your best protections against cervical cancer. Screening can find HPV and cell changes before they develop into cancer.

Find out why it is important to keep up with your cervical screening schedule.

More Cervical screening resources

Find more information about cervical screening, including resources in different languages.

Have Symptoms? See Your Healthcare Provider

Cervical screening is for people who do not have symptoms.

See your healthcare provider if you have unusual bleeding, bleeding after sex or bleeding after menopause. You should also seek advice if you have unusual discharge or pelvic pain.

Do not wait for your next routine screening appointment. These symptoms do not necessarily mean you have cervical cancer, but it is important to have them checked.