Cervical screening: a simple test that can save lives

Why is cervical screening so important?

Almost all cervical cancer is caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is very common and is passed on through intimate skin-to-skin contact. Most HPV infections clear naturally, but sometimes the virus stays in the body and can cause cell changes that may eventually develop into cervical cancer.

Cervical screening looks for HPV so that people who may be at greater risk can be identified and offered further testing, monitoring or treatment if needed.

Cervical cancer usually develops slowly, which means screening provides an important opportunity to identify risk and cell changes early – often before there are any symptoms.

Who should be screened?

In Aotearoa NZ, cervical screening is generally recommended for women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 69 who have had intimate sexual contact.

Screening is important, even if you’ve had the HPV vaccine, have only had one sexual partner, are no longer sexually active, or have been through menopause. If you’ve had a hysterectomy, talk to your healthcare provider about whether you still need screening.

For most people who have a negative HPV result, screening is needed every five years. Some people may need more frequent screening depending on their circumstances and previous results.

Screening is easier than it used to be

If discomfort or embarrassment has stopped you from booking a cervical smear in the past, there’s an important change you should know about.

New Zealand's National Cervical Screening Programme now uses HPV testing as its primary screening method. 

For most people, this can be done with a simple vaginal swab that you can take yourself in private. You can also ask a healthcare provider to take the swab for you, or choose to have a cervical sample taken (known as a smear test) - whatever you’re most comfortable with.

The self-test is quick and easy to do. Some healthcare providers may also offer the option of taking the test home, so talk to your practice about the options available to you.

What if HPV is found?

If HPV is detected, it does not mean you have cervical cancer. Depending on the type of HPV found, you may need another test or further assessment.

Your healthcare provider will explain your result, what it means and what needs to happen next.

Cervical screening is free for some people

Cervical screening is free for some women/wāhine and whānau in New Zealand. This includes:

• Māori and Pacific women/wāhine aged 25 to 69 years
• Community Services Cardholders aged 25 to 69
• Those aged 30 - 74 years who have never been screened
• Those aged 30+ years and it has been 5 years or more since their last cytology, or 7 years or more since their last HPV test.
• Those aged 70 to 74 years and have not had 2 consecutive normal cervical cytology results between 62 to 69 years, or a 'HPV' not detected' result in the 5 years prior to age 70.

If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible for free screening, please check with your medical centre.

This is your reminder

If you're due or overdue, have never been screened, or aren't sure when your next screening is due, contact your closest The Doctors Medical Centre. Our team can check when you're due, explain your options and help make screening as straightforward and comfortable as possible.

September is NZ Cervical Screening Awareness Month

September is Cervical Screening Awareness Month in Aotearoa New Zealand – a timely reminder to talk about cervical screening, stay up to date, and encourage the women in our lives to put their health first.

It’s an important conversation in September, but also one worth having all year round.

A simple conversation and a quick test could make an important difference.