Cervical screening involves HPV testing as a primary method; if HPV is detected, a cytology test follows, and abnormal results lead to colposcopy referrals. Screening frequencies vary by age: every three years for ages 25-49, extending to five years from July 1, 2025, and every five years for ages 50-64.

HPV self-sampling kits are available. 

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusions

Eligibility criteria for the NHS Cervical Screening Programme is as follows:

• aged 25-49
• aged 50-64
• aged 65+: only those not screened since the age of 50 or who have had recent abnormal tests
• trans men (assigned female at birth) do not receive invitations if registered as male with their GP, but are still entitled to screening if they have a cervix. See NHS Gender Opt-in for screening form.

Exclusions

• women younger than 25 should not be screened as part of the NHS cervical screening programme
• if a woman younger than 25 presents with symptoms indicative of possible cervical cancer, refer to the GOV.UK guidelines on screening young women.