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Cervical Screening.

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Screening is the best way to catch it early.

  • Cervical Cancer & HPV
    • Cervical cancer signs and symptoms
    • HPV-negative cervical cancers
    • What is HPV (human papillomavirus)?
    • Why test for HPV?
    • Does HPV affect men?
    • HPV and sexual partners
  • Do I need the test?
    • Why should I do the cervical cancer screening test?
    • When do I start screening for cervical cancer?
    • Understanding the Cervical Screening Test in your language
    • Cervical screening for sexual assault survivors
    • What if I'm over 50?
    • What if I'm pregnant?
    • What if I’ve already had the HPV vaccination (Gardasil)?
    • Information for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women
    • Information for LGBTIQ people
    • Information for women with disabilities
    • Do I need the cervical screening test if I’ve had a hysterectomy?
    • What if I'm over 70?
    • I'm under 25
      • How will I know when to start getting screened?
      • I'm vaccinated - do I still need to do the test when I turn 25?
      • The HPV vaccine helps protect against cervical cancer
      • What if I've had an abnormal result before?
  • About the test
    • What does the cervical screening test cost?
    • What can I expect at my first Cervical Screening Test?
    • How long to wait between cervical screenings
    • Self-collection and the Cervical Screening Test
  • Test results
    • What happens next?
Cervical Cancer & HPVDo I need the test?About the testTest results

Routine testing could save your life

Anyone with a cervix, aged 25-74 is eligible for a screening test. You can have a healthcare provider collect your screening sample or collect your own. Both are simple and equally effective. The sample is taken from the vagina, using a simple swab which is then checked for human papillomavirus (HPV).

Why is it important?

The test detects the presence of HPV, a common infection that shows no obvious symptoms and can cause cells in the cervix to turn cancerous. HPV causes almost all cervical cancers.

Do I need a Cervical Screening Test?

Everyone’s health journey is different. Understand if cervical screening is right for you - whatever your background, body, or medical history.
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