You have been invited to take part in the cervical cancer screening.
If you decide to take part, you can choose between a smear test and a self-sampling device. The information on this page can help you choose.

 
Smear test
Self-sampling device
What is it? The smear test is a way to find out if you have human papillomavirus (HPV) and abnormal cells. The doctor’s assistant will use the smear test to collect cells from the cervix. The self-sampling device is a way to find out if you have human papillomavirus (HPV). The self-sampling device makes it easy to collect vaginal material yourself at home.
How do I take part? For a smear test, you will need to make an appointment with your GP practice. You can request a self-sampling device from the Centre for Population Screening. If you are 30 years old, we will send a self-sampling device along with the invitation letter. If you are 35 years old or older, we will send a self-sampling device along with the reminder letter.
How does the screening work? You will have an appointment with the doctor’s assistant. The doctor’s assistant will ask you a few questions first. Then you undress from the waist down. The doctor’s assistant will use a special instrument called a speculum. With a small brush, the doctor’s assistant will take some endometrium from the cervix. That concludes the screening. We will send the self-sampling device by post to your home address. Follow the step-by-step instructions or watch the instructional video. Use the swab stick to collect material from your vagina. You can do this at home at a time that suits you. Next, send the self-sampling device back to the laboratory by post.
What does the screening check for? First, the laboratory will check the smear test for HPV. If HPV is found, the laboratory will check the smear test again to see if any abnormal cells are present.

The laboratory will check the material in the self-sampling device for HPV.
Who will get the results? You and your GP will get the results of the smear test.

You will get the results.
What happens next?

Different results are possible.

  • If you do not have HPV, no further tests are needed. You will automatically be sent an invitation letter for the next round

If you got a different result, the letter will explain what happens next. Along with the letter, we will also send you a leaflet with extra information.

  • You will be invited for a control smear after 12 months.
  • You will be referred to the gynaecologist for further tests.

There are two possible results:

HPV was found or no HPV was found.

  • If no HPV was found, no further tests are needed. You will automatically be sent an invitation letter for the next round.
  • If HPV was found, we will send you an invitation for a smear test at the GP practice. This smear test will be used to check for abnormal cells.

Benefits
  • If you have questions about the population screening, you can ask the doctor's assistant directly.
  • You are done in just one visit.
  • You can use the self-sampling device at home at a time that suits you.
  • The self-sampling device is easy to use.

Drawbacks
  • You may have some discomfort or bleeding.
  • Some people feel embarrassed during the screening.
  • If HPV was found, you will need to go to your GP practice for a smear test.

More information

Do you want more information?
Go to the information about cervical cancer sreening