Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Screening plays a critical role in early detection and prevention of this type of cancer. Cervical cancer screening is recommended every five years through your GP or women's healthcare provider.
The screening process involves collecting a vaginal swab to test for the human papillomavirus, or HPV, which is the cause of most cases of cervical cancer in Australia.
Should I have a cervical screening test?
You should get a cervical screening test if you are:
- Aged between 25 and 74
- Have had any type of sexual contact (with any person, even of the same gender)
- A woman or person with a cervix
How do I get a cervical screening test?
You can get a cervical screening test from your preferred healthcare provider. Healthcare providers include:
- A doctor's clinic
- A community health centre
- A women’s health centre
- A family planning clinic
- A sexual health clinic
- An Aboriginal medical service or Aboriginal community controlled health service
Who can do my cervical screening test?
If you are eligible to have a cervical screening test, your options include:
- A GP (If you prefer, you can ask for a female GP to do your test)
- A nurse trained in cervical screening
- A gynaecologist
- An Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander health practitioner or worker
- You can do it yourself (self-collection)
Where can I book my cervical screening test?
Contact your GP or healthcare provider to check if you're due or overdue for a cervical screening test. If you’re due, make a booking with them. If you don’t have a preferred healthcare provider, healthdirect can help you find a healthcare provider to book your test with.
Will I be reminded to book in my next cervical cancer screening test?
You will be sent an invitation and reminder letter from the National Screening Register if you are due for cervical screening or other follow-up tests.
HPV vaccine
In addition to screening, the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is also an effective way to guard against infection of HPV. The vaccine is free under the National Immunisation Program.