Description:

What is cervical screening? - Cervical screening

Cervical screening (a smear test) checks the health of your cervix. 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.
All women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64 should be invited by letter.
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 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.
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.

Media last reviewed: 4 February 2022
Media review due: 4 February 2025

Try not to put off cervical screening. It's one of the best ways to protect yourself from cervical cancer.

Page last reviewed: 31 March 2020
Next review due: 31 March 2023