What is cervical screening?
Cervical Screening, sometimes called a smear test, checks the health of cervix (the opening of your womb).
It does not test for cancer, but it does look for:
- A virus called human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Early cell changes that could develop into cancer if not treated
If HPV is found, the sample is checked for cell changes that can be treated. Finding these changes early means they can usually be treated before cancer develops.
Who is eligible for cervical screening?
Women and people with cervix:
- Aged 25-49: invited every 3 years
- Aged 50-64: invited every 5 years
What causes cervical cell changes?
Most cervical cell changes are caused by high-risk types of HPV.
HPV is very common, and most people will have it at some point in their lives.
In many cases, they body’s immune system will clear HPV naturally without causing any harm.
What happens to your sample?
Since December 2023, all cervical screening samples are tested in the same way:
HPV Test
Your sample is checked for high-risk HPV.
If HPV is not found:
- Your risk of cervical cancer is very low
- You do not need follow up tests
- You will be invited for screening again in 3-5 years
If high-risk HPV is found:
Your sample is then checked for cell changes.
If HPV is found by no cell changes:
- You will be invited for another screening test in 12 months
- This is to check if the HPV has cleared
If HPV is still present after 3 yearly tests, you will be referred for further checks, even if there are no cell changes
If HPV and cell changes are found:
You will be referred to a hospital clinic for a test called a colposcopy.
What is a colposcopy?
A colposcopy is a closer examination of your cervix.
- It is carried out in a hospital clinic
- A specialist uses a microscope to look more closely at your cervix
- It helps decide if any treatment is needed
What if the sample cannot be tested?
Sometimes, there are not enough cells in the sample.
If this happens you will be asked to return for a repeat test in 3 months.
How does cervical screening programme work in Northern Ireland?
The Northern Ireland Cervical Screening Programme helps prevent cervical cancer.
It does this by:
- Inviting women for regular screening tests
- Checking samples for early changes
- Referring people for further tests or treatment if needed.