Why is cervical screening important?
This page explains what cervical screening is and why it is important.
What is cervical screening?
Your cervix is the neck of your womb.
The cervical screening test checks your cervix for human papillomavirus or HPV.
The cervical screening test is sometimes called the smear test.
Human papillomavirus or HPV
Cervical screening checks for HPV as the virus causes nearly all cervical cancers.
HPV is a very common virus.
If HPV is found in your sample, it will then be looked at under a microscope for cell changes.
Cervical screening can stop cervical cancer before it starts.
Who should be screened?
Aged 25 to 64 years old
Anyone in Scotland aged 25 to 64 years old with a cervix are offered cervical screening.
Every 5 years
Cervical screening is offered every 5 years.
You may be recalled more often depending on your test results:
Benefits and risks
Benefits of screening
Cervical screening can stop cervical cancer before it starts.
The test only takes about 5 minutes and could save your life.
It is the best way to find out if you are at risk of cervical cancer.
Risks of screening
Cervical screening is the best way to stop cervical cancer, but screening tests are not 100% accurate.
The test can not always find HPV or cell changes.
Taking part in cervical screening will not stop you developing HPV or cell changes in the future.
It is important to see your GP if you notice any signs or symptoms of cervical cancer, even if you take part in screening.
Screening might say someone has HPV or cell changes when they do not. This means some people may get treatment they did not need.
Screening for transgender and non-binary people
Trans person/non-binary
Will I be invited automatically for screening if I’m a trans person or non-binary?
What is HPV?
A video from Jo’s Trust
HPV Awareness (English)
A video from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde
