What is Cervical Screening?

The Cervical Screening Programme now uses human papillomavirus (HPV) testing as a new cervical screening test. This test specifically looks for the presence of HPV.

HPV is a virus that is very common. It can infect the genital areas of anyone. It usually shows no signs or symptoms and go away on its own so you won’t even know you have it.

However, some types of HPV can cause abnormal cells in the cervix and sometimes these abnormalities can develop into cancer.

Click here for more information about HPV in females and males.

Click here for the local guide to HPV vaccinations.

Where can I go to get cervical screening?

Cervical screening can be undertaken at Choices, the Orchard Centre or your GP surgery.

Anyone with a cervix should have screening from the age of 25 until the age of 65. From 1st July 2025, the UK national screening guidelines state that it is recommended a screening should be undertaken once every 5 years, unless your previous test result showed that another test was necessary sooner.

Under 25’s and over 65‘s do not need cervical screening, however you should see a doctor if you develop any of the following symptoms at any age:

  • Bleeding between periods or after the menopause
  • Pain/bleeding during sex
  • Unpleasant vaginal discharge

It is best not to have the test taken if you are bleeding, when you are about to have a period or in the few days after your period has finished.

The nurse or doctor collects cells from the cervix which are sent to the lab for analysis.

If you are feeling anxious or have had a difficult experience previously please talk to a nurse or doctor about ways to make the procedure more comfortable and less stressful.

For more information about having a cervical screening test click here. 

At Choices, cervical screening is FREE to residents of Guernsey, Herm and Alderney. 

The national guidelines to support young women and people with a cervix aged 20 to 24 states you do not need a cervical screen until you are 25 because: 

  • cervical cancer is very rare in people under 25
  • cervical screening has not shown to reduce cancer cases in this age group
  • it might lead to having treatment you do not need – abnormal cell changes often go back to normal in younger women and people with a cervix

However, whatever your age, it’s important to be aware of cervical cancer symptoms. Contact your GP as soon as possible if you notice anything out of the ordinary or if you develop any of the following symptoms: 

  • vaginal bleeding that is unusual for you
  • vaginal discharge that is unusual for you
  • pain or discomfort during sex
  • unexplained lower back pain that lasts a long time

Remember it is unlikely to be cervical cancer, but it’s still very important to get it checked out.

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