Cervical Screening

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, and regular screening is the best protection. In Australia the Pap smear was replaced by the Cervical Screening Test in December 2017. It looks for the human papillomavirus (HPV) that can cause cervical cancer, rather than only looking for cell changes.

Who should be screened, and how often?

• Women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 74 who have ever been sexually active
• Every 5 years if your results are normal, rather than every 2 years as with the old Pap smear
• More often if your doctor recommends it, for example after an abnormal result

Cervical Screening Test vs Pap smear

The Cervical Screening Test is more effective than the Pap smear and is needed less often. The sample is collected the same way, but it is tested for HPV first.

Your options

• Collected by your doctor. A speculum is used and a sample is taken from the cervix.
• Self-collection. You can collect a vaginal swab yourself in private in the clinic, with instructions from your GP. 

When to see a doctor sooner

See your GP promptly if you have unusual vaginal bleeding (including after sex or between periods), unusual discharge or pain during sex, even if you’re up to date with screening.