There are changes to the invitation / recall system for Cervical Screening-please read about these below.
Changes to the Cervical Screening Invitation System
More accurate human papillomavirus (HPV) testing will enable millions of women and people with a cervix in England to benefit from more personalised cervical screening from next month, the NHS has announced.
From July 2025, younger women (aged 25 to 49) who test negative for HPV, meaning they are at very low risk of cervical cancer over the next 10 years, will safely be invited at 5-year intervals rather than 3, in line with major clinical evidence.
Those whose sample indicates the presence of HPV or who have a recent history of HPV, which causes nearly all cervical cancers, will continue to be invited to more frequent screenings to check HPV has cleared and if not, if any cell changes have developed.
The move follows a recommendation by the UK National Screening Committee, and is the approach already used for women aged 50 to 64 in England.
Read the full guidance here.
The importance of attending for Cervical Screening
We understand that attending cervical screening can sometimes feel daunting, but it is a crucial step in maintaining your health and well-being. Here’s why participating in cervical screening is so important and how we are here to support you:
Why Attend Cervical Screening?
Early Detection Saves Lives:
Cervical screening can detect abnormal cells in the cervix before they develop into cancer. Early detection means that any potential issues can be addressed promptly, significantly increasing the chances of successful treatment.
Prevention is Key:
Screening is not a test for cancer; it is a preventive measure. By identifying changes early, we can prevent cervical cancer from developing in the first place.
Regular Screening is Essential:
Even if you feel healthy and have no symptoms, regular screening is important. Changes in cervical cells often do not cause symptoms until they have progressed.
Safe and Professional Environment:
Our healthcare team is trained to ensure that your screening experience is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. We maintain the highest standards of care and confidentiality.
We’re Here to Help:
If you have any questions or concerns about the screening process, please reach out to us. We are here to provide information, support, and reassurance every step of the way.
Flexible Appointments:
We offer flexible appointment times to fit your schedule. Please contact us to arrange a convenient time for your screening.
Your health is our priority, and attending cervical screening is a vital part of taking care of yourself. We encourage you to respond to your screening invitation and take this proactive step towards safeguarding your health.
Anxious about attending for your Cervical Smear?
GOV.UK has a very detailed and helpful web page with information for women who find it difficult to attend for cervical screening. It also contains links to other organisations. You can find it here.