Cervical screening
If you are a women or person with a cervix, aged between 25 and 74 years and have ever been sexually active, you are eligible for a cervical screening test every 5 years.
This includes if you have received the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.
When your first test is due
The National Cervical Screening Program invites women and people with a cervix to test from 25 years old. After that, you should be tested every 5 years if your results are normal.
How to book
Tests can be carried out by:
- your GP
- a nurse or doctor at a community women's health centre
- a family planning and sexual health clinic
- Aboriginal Medical Service.
If you prefer a female healthcare provider, ask when you book your appointment.
Go to Canberra Health Services to find out about the Women's Health Service.
Self-collection
From 1 July 2022, the National Cervical Screening Program offers all eligible women and people with a cervix, two options for having a cervical screening test. You have a choice between having a healthcare provider collect your sample (clinician-collection) or you can collect your own sample (self-collection).
If you are interested in self-collection, talk to your doctor or nurse, or to find out more visit Self-collection for the Cervical Screening Test.
Test results
The National Cancer Screening Register confidentially stores your cervical screening test results. You can choose whether you would like to have your results stored on the register or not.
You will receive an invitation from the register when you are due for your cervical screening test and will also be reminded when your test is overdue.
For more information, visit the National Cancer Screening Register.
For more information on the Cervical Screening Program, go to National Cervical Screening Program.