Cervical screening is one of those health checks that is easy to forget about. The test is only due every five years, so the reminder letter can arrive when life is busy. Many women also still think of it as the old Pap test. That changed some years ago, and there is now a self collection choice that some people may prefer.
This guide covers who should screen, what the test looks for and how self collection works. It also explains what happens after your result comes back. The aim is to help you feel ready to book, not to replace a talk with your doctor.
What the Cervical Screening Test looks for
The Cervical Screening Test checks for human papillomavirus, usually called HPV. According to Cancer Australia, HPV is a common virus that can cause cervical cancer. Queensland Health notes that HPV causes almost all cervical cancers. The test can pick up several types of HPV, including the high risk types 16 and 18.
This test replaced the Pap test in December 2017. A Pap test looked for changes in cells. The newer test looks for the virus that can lead to those changes in the first place. That is why the result is about your HPV status rather than a look at your cells.
Who should have cervical screening
The National Cervical Screening Program invites women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 74. Screening is recommended every five years if your results are normal. Invitations start once you turn 25. Your next due date is tracked for you by the National Cancer Screening Register.
Queensland Health says screening applies to anyone with a cervix in that age range who has had any type of sexual contact, with any person. The gender of your partner makes no difference. The ACT Government also includes people who have had the HPV vaccine in its eligibility advice. So being vaccinated is not a reason to skip your test.
Taking part is voluntary. The register says it is your choice to take part, and you can start again at any time if you have opted out. If you are not sure if you still need screening, your doctor can check your history with you. This is worth asking about if you have had surgery or treatment in the past.
How self collection works
Since 1 July 2022, eligible people have been able to choose between two ways of having the test. A clinician can take a sample from the cervix, as before. Or you can take your own sample from the vagina using a swab. Both options are arranged through a healthcare provider.
Self collection usually happens at your clinic. You are given a swab, instructions and a private space, such as a screened area or a bathroom. Queensland Health explains that you insert the swab a few centimetres into the vagina. You then rotate it for 20 to 30 seconds before handing it back.
Many people worry that doing it themselves will give a less reliable result. Queensland Health states that self collected samples are just as safe and accurate at detecting HPV as samples taken by a clinician. Cancer Council Australia says HPV can be found just as well in cells from the vagina as cells from the cervix. If you would still rather have a clinician take the sample, you can ask for that.
Your doctor or nurse still plays a part in the process. They help you decide which option suits you and check the test is done correctly. They also explain your results and arrange any follow up. If you would feel more comfortable with a female provider, the ACT Government suggests asking for one when you book.
When self collection is not the right choice
Self collection checks only for HPV. It does not look at the cells of the cervix. That is why it is not suitable for anyone who has symptoms. Unusual bleeding, pain or discharge should be checked by a healthcare provider straight away.
Do not wait for your next screening date if something feels wrong. Screening is meant for people without symptoms. If you have symptoms, a doctor needs to examine you properly rather than rely on a routine test. Book an appointment and explain what you have noticed.
Where to have the test
You can have cervical screening with your GP. The ACT Government lists other places too, including community women’s health centres and family planning and sexual health clinics. Aboriginal Medical Services also offer the test. Ask about self collection when you call so the clinic knows what you would prefer.
It helps to keep your contact details up to date. Invitations and reminders are posted by the register, so a change of address can mean a missed letter. If you are planning a move and booking house and garden removal services, add your new address to your doctor’s records too. You can also check when you are due through the register’s Participant Portal.
What happens after your result
Your result goes to your healthcare provider and to the National Cancer Screening Register. It is also uploaded to My Health Record unless you ask for it not to be. If you have not heard back, you can contact your provider or the register. Most people will simply be told they are due again in five years.
If HPV is found on a self collected sample, you will usually be asked to come back. A clinician will then take a sample from the cervix to look for any cell changes. In some cases you may be referred to a specialist for further tests. Your provider will explain what your result means and the next step.
Why staying up to date matters
Queensland Health reports that over 70 per cent of people diagnosed with cervical cancer had never screened or were not up to date. Cancer Council Australia makes a similar point. Most cases occur in people who have missed their regular test. That is a strong reason to book when your letter arrives.
Five years is a long gap, and dates slip easily. It can help to treat screening like any other regular job, much like the regular upkeep you do to maintain your vacuum cleaner. Big life events can also push health checks down the list. Planning a wedding, down to sorting extras for your wedding car, can be a time when routine appointments slip.
If you are already thinking about other health choices, add cervical screening to the same list. Some women are weighing up options such as laser eye surgery instead of contact lenses. Others are simply catching up on checks they have put off. Either way, a short appointment now can give you peace of mind for years.
Frequently asked questions
How often do I need cervical screening?
If your result is normal, the test is recommended every five years. This applies to women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 74. You will get a letter when your next test is due. A reminder follows if you become overdue.
Is self collection as accurate as a test done by a doctor?
For finding HPV, yes. Queensland Health says self collected samples are just as safe and accurate at detecting HPV. If HPV is found, you will need a further sample taken from the cervix by a clinician. Your provider will explain what that involves.
Do I still need screening if I have had the HPV vaccine?
Yes, you should keep screening. The ACT Government includes vaccinated people in its eligibility advice. Talk with your provider if you are unsure when you are due. They can check your screening history for you.
Can I use self collection if I have symptoms?
No, self collection is not suitable if you have symptoms. Unusual bleeding, pain or discharge should be checked by a healthcare provider straight away. They may need to examine you and test for cell changes. Book an appointment and explain your symptoms.
This article is general information only and is not medical advice. Please speak with a doctor or qualified health professional about your own health and screening needs.