Cervical cancer can be stopped before it starts
The Cervical Screening Test checks for human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus and the cause of almost all cervical cancers.
The Cervical Screening Test can find HPV or changes in your cervix early — long before you would notice anything yourself.
If treatment is needed, it can usually be taken care of before it can turn into something more serious.
It’s about looking after your health early and not waiting for something to feel wrong. It’s 1 test every 5 years for peace of mind.
Who should do cervical screening?
If you’re a woman, sistergirl, or brotherboy with a cervix aged 25 to 74, and you’ve ever had any type of sexual contact, you should have a Cervical Screening Test every 5 years.
This includes people who:
- have or haven’t had the HPV vaccine
- are gender-diverse and have a cervix
- are lesbian, gay or bisexual
- have only had one sexual partner
- have only had sexual contact once, or not for a long time
- are pregnant or have had a baby
If you’ve had a hysterectomy, please talk to your healthcare worker about cervical screening.
Where can I do cervical screening?
You can book a Cervical Screening Test wherever you usually go for your health care. This could be a general practice, a health centre or clinic, or a medical service.
When you book, you can:
- ask to see a woman doctor, nurse or health worker
- ask about self-collection
- ask any questions you have
- let them know if you want to bring a support person with you
There is a full Medicare rebate for the test but it’s a good idea to check about any consultation or pathology fees when you book.
Choose how you screen
You can choose between screening with a healthcare worker or doing the test yourself. Both options are safe and effective at finding HPV. The best option is the one that feels right to you.
If you feel nervous, that’s normal. You can ask questions. You can ask for help and support. You can change your mind about how you want to do the test when you arrive.
This is your body. It’s your choice.
In some cases, like if you have any unusual symptoms, your health worker might recommend they do the test or another doctor or nurse does it.
What to expect when screening with a healthcare worker
A healthcare worker like a doctor, nurse or Aboriginal health worker can do the test for you. This is sometimes called a healthcare provider-collected test.
What to expect with self-collection
You can collect your own sample using a small, thin swab. This is sometimes also called a self-swab test.
Understanding cervical screening
Cervical screening saves lives. Here’s more information and things you should know.
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