Cervical Screening

Cervical screening (sometimes called the 'smear test') is a test to check for cervical cancer caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV), which is very common and easily spread by sexual activity.

Routine cervical screening is offered every 5 years to all women (and trans men with a cervix) in Scotland, aged between 25-64 years of age.

Non-routine screening may be offered more frequently. Some, but not all changes found by cervical screening tests may give an early warning sign to the possibility of developing cervical cancer.

Ask

• Have you been invited to attend cervical screening?
• Have you attended cervical screening?
• Do you understand why you have been invited?

Assist

• Do you require support to make an appointment?
• Do you know how to make an appointment?
• Do you require support to attend an appointment? (eg disability/mobility issues)

Act

• Are you aware you can book longer appointment and can take someone with you?
• Do you need more information about cervical screening?