Women and anyone with a cervix between the age of 25 and 65 should go for a cervical screening test when it is due.
When you can book a cervical screening test
If you are on CervicalCheck’s register and they have your correct address, they will write to you to remind you:
- when your next cervical screening test (formerly smear test) is due
- to make an appointment for a free test with your GP, or a GP or clinic of your choice
You can book your appointment:
- when you get your letter
- if you check the register and your test is due – even if you do not have a letter
- if you are age 25 to 65 and are not on the register
If you had a recent test
If you had a recent test and your smear or cervical screening test results were normal, you will be invited for HPV cervical screening 3 or 5 years after your last test. This will depend on your age.
But if you are HPV positive you may need screening more often.
If your results found low-grade abnormal cells, follow the advice you were given in your result letter.
If you have had a colposcopy or treatment for abnormal cells, your colposcopist will tell you when to have a cervical screening test.
If you missed your last test
You do not need to wait for a letter to book an appointment if you missed your last cervical screening test. You need to book your screening test yourself.
If you are not due a test but want to have one
If your test is not due, but you still want to have one, you can pay for a private screening test. This test will not be free as it is not part of the national screening programme.
Your screening history
Having an accurate record of your screening history helps us to make sure you get the best treatment or advice.
But CervicalCheck can only access information on tests taken within the CervicalCheck screening programme.
Your screening history will not include information on any private tests you have. For example if you had a smear test, HPV screening or colposcopy as a private patient.
The lab that tests your private test sample will also not have access to your screening history.
If you have never had a cervical screening or smear test
If you have never had a screening test before, you can still have one with a registered GP, doctor or clinic. You just need to be aged 25 to 65.
You can learn more about booking your test here.
If you have never had a test, you can add your details using your PPS Number and your date of birth.
Acknowledgement
This page contains information based upon content from reliable sources including the HSE’s website (this link will take you to an external website).