All women between the ages of 25 and 64 are eligible for a free cervical screening test every three to five years. In the light of evidence published in 2003 the NHS Cervical Screening Programme now offers screening at different intervals depending on age. This means that women are provided with a more targeted and effective screening programme.
The current intervals are:
| Age group (years) | Frequency of screening |
|---|
| 25 |
First invitation |
| 25 - 49 |
3 yearly |
| 50 - 64 |
5 yearly |
| 65+ |
Only screen those who have not been screened since age 50 or have had recent abnormal tests |
The NHS call and recall system invites women who are registered with a GP. It also keeps track of any follow-up investigation, and, if all is well, recalls the woman for screening in three or five years time. It is therefore important that all women ensure their GP has their correct name and address details and inform them if these change.
Women who have not had a recent test may be offered one when they attend their GP or family planning clinic on another matter. Women should receive their first invitation for routine screening at 25.
Smears should be booked with the practice nurse with a double appointment. Ideally the test is carried out two weeks after the first day of your last period. Letters will be sent to remind patients when their smears are due. If you experience any spotting particularly after intercourse or finds intercourse has become painful please come in for a check up irrespecitive wether the cervical screening is due.
I'm not sexually active - do I still need cervical screening?
The evidence shows that if a woman has never been sexually active then her risk of developing cervical cancer is very low indeed. We don't say 'no risk' just 'low risk'. A woman who has ever had sex will probably have come into contact with HPV which causes cervical cancer so she should accept her invitation for cervical screening.