Cervical Screening

Cervical cancer is when abnormal cells in the lining of the cervix grow uncontrollably and eventually form a growth (tumour). If not caught early, cancer cells gradually grow into the surrounding tissues and may spread to other body areas. Cervical screening is a free health test that helps prevent cervical cancer. It checks for a virus called high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and, if you have HPV, cervical cell changes (abnormal cells). You should be invited for cervical screening if you have a cervix. Women are usually born with a cervix. Trans men, non-binary and intersex people may also have one. In the UK, you are automatically invited for cervical screening if you are:

• between the ages of 25 to 64
• registered as female with a GP surgery.

How often will I be invited for cervical screening? Your cervical screening result will help decide when you are next invited for cervical screening. You may be invited:

• every year
• every 3 years
• every 5 years
• straight to colposcopy for more tests.

Benefits of cervical screening

• Cervical screening aims to identify whether you are at higher risk of developing cervical cell changes or cervical cancer. This means you can get any care or treatment you need early.
• England, Scotland and Wales now use HPV primary screening, which is even better as it is based on your individual risk. This means how frequently you are invited for cervical screening is based on your last result and within a timeframe that is safe for you.

To book your cervical screening contact Nurse Reception on 0191 295 8512. You can also speak to one of our Cancer Champions for further information.