How often should women have cervical screening and HPV tests?

For many women, the thought of cervical screening – previously known as the Pap smear – can feel a little daunting. However, it remains one of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer.

The reassuring news is that the test is quick, simple, and designed to detect early changes in cervical cells long before they become a health problem.

In the UK, women are invited for routine cervical screening through the NHS. For further advice or follow-up care, Doctify can connect you with trusted gynaecologists who specialise in women’s health and cervical screening.

What is cervical screening?

Cervical screening is a preventive test that checks for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) – the main cause of cervical cancer – and, if necessary, looks for abnormal cells on the cervix.

The process may include:

• HPV testing, which looks for the virus itself.
• Cytology, where a laboratory examines cervical cells under a microscope.

It’s important to remember that this is not a test for cancer, but rather a screening tool that helps prevent it by catching early changes before they have the chance to develop.

How often should you have cervical screening?

The recommended frequency depends on your age and where you live.

In the UK

• Ages 25-49: every 3 years
• Ages 50-64: every 5 years

From 2025 onwards, many NHS areas will use HPV primary testing, which means the sample is tested for the virus first. If HPV isn’t found, you may not need another test for several years.

Elsewhere (Internationally)

In many countries, women aged 30-65 are advised to have co-testing (HPV + Pap cytology) every 5 years, or cytology alone every 3 years.

You don’t need to keep track of dates yourself in the UK; the NHS automatically sends an invitation when your screening is due.

Understanding HPV and its role

HPV (human papillomavirus) is a very common virus spread through skin-to-skin contact, usually during sexual activity. Most people will have it at some point in their lives.

In most cases, the body clears HPV naturally within a year or two. However, some high-risk types can cause cervical cell changes that, if left untreated, may lead to cancer.

Even if you’ve received the HPV vaccine, screening remains essential, as the vaccine doesn’t protect against all high-risk strains.

What happens during the test

Cervical screening is a straightforward procedure that usually takes just a few minutes:

1. You’ll be asked to lie back, and a small device called a speculum is gently inserted into the vagina to view the cervix.
2. A soft brush is used to collect a tiny sample of cells from the cervix.
3. The sample is sent to a lab for HPV testing and, if necessary, cytology.

The test may feel a little uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t be painful. Results typically arrive within a few weeks.

What abnormal results mean

Receiving an abnormal result can be worrying, but it rarely means cancer. The outcome simply guides the next step:

• No HPV found: You’ll be invited for your next routine test in 3-5 years.
• HPV found but no abnormal cells: You’ll have a repeat test in 12 months to see if the infection clears naturally.
• HPV and abnormal cells found: You’ll be referred for a colposcopy, a closer examination of the cervix to decide if any treatment is needed.

Most early changes are easily treated and don’t lead to long-term problems.

Why regular screening matters

Cervical screening detects early changes before symptoms appear and prevents around 70% of cervical cancers in the UK. It’s one of the simplest, most reliable ways to protect your health – even if you feel perfectly well.

Attending regular screenings ensures that any potential issues are caught early, when treatment is straightforward and highly effective.

When to see a specialist sooner

While most women can follow the routine screening schedule, you should speak with a doctor sooner if you notice:

• Unusual vaginal bleeding (between periods, after sex, or after menopause).
• Persistent pelvic pain or discomfort.
• Unexplained vaginal discharge.

If you’ve missed previous screenings or are unsure about your HPV status, it’s also a good idea to check in. Doctify can help you book appointments with gynaecologists and women’s health specialists for reassurance, private testing, or further evaluation.

Conclusion

Cervical screening and HPV testing save lives by detecting early, preventable changes in the cervix. The test is quick, safe, and available to all women through the NHS.

Attending your screening when invited – and discussing any concerns with a trusted specialist – gives you peace of mind and long-term protection.

For personalised care or private consultations, Doctify’s network of gynaecologists can help you stay on top of your cervical health.

Find the best gynaecologists in the United Kingdom, or search for trusted experts globally:

• Gynaecologists in Ireland
• Gynaecologists in Australia
• Gynaecologists in the United Arab Emirates
• Gynaecologists in Germany

Medically Reviewed
Last reviewed on 13/10/2025