When you should get screened for cervical cancer

Cancer screening can be crucial in the early detection of cervical cancer

Screening has shown to improve survival rates through the early detection of cancer.

Finding cancer early, often means there are more treatment options available to you and increases your chances of successful treatment. In Australia, national screening programs are available for breast cancer, bowel cancer and cervical cancer. By understanding how screening works, its importance, and who should get screened, individuals can take proactive steps towards their health. 

The National Cervical Screening Program aims to reduce illness and death from cervical cancer with regular testing. A cervical screening test can determine if there are any abnormal or cancerous cells in the cervix and is a preventive measure to detect early signs of cervical cancer. 

How cervical cancer screening works

Cervical screening is a simple test done every five years to check for Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a common infection that causes most cervical cancers. It is a test to help prevent cancer, not a test for cancer. The screening involves taking a small sample of cells from the cervix, which is then sent to a laboratory for testing.

If high-risk HPV is found, the laboratory will test the sample for cell changes. High-risk HPV can cause cell changes in the cervix, which over time can develop into cancer. If abnormal cells are found, they can be treated so they do not get a chance to turn into cervical cancer.

Who should have a cervical screen

The current guidelines recommend that every woman and person with a cervix from the ages of 25-74 who has ever had sexual contact should have a cervical screening test every five years. This includes those who have had the HPV vaccine, only had one sexual partner, not been sexually active for a long time or been in a long-term monogamous relationship.

If you are eligible for a screening test and have received an invitation to screen or have received a free home test kit, now is the time to tick cancer screening off your list. For more information, visit the relevant screening program and if you have any concerns, talk to your doctor or health care provider.

The content on the Icon Cancer Centre website is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. It is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified medical practitioner. For personalised medical guidance, please consult with your GP or another qualified healthcare provider.