Cervical screening is changing – here’s what you need to know

More accurate human papillomavirus (HPV) testing will enable millions of women and people with a cervix in England to benefit from more personalised cervical screening.

From 1st July 2025, younger women (aged 25 to 49) who test negative for HPV, meaning they are at very low risk of cervical cancer over the next 10 years, will safely be invited at 5-year intervals rather than 3. This is in line with major clinical evidence.

Those whose sample indicates the presence of HPV or who have a recent history of HPV, which causes nearly all cervical cancers, will continue to be invited to more frequent screenings. This will check if  HPV has cleared and if not, if any cell changes have developed.

The move follows a recommendation by the UK National Screening Committee. It is the approach already used for women aged 50 to 64 in England.

Since December 2019, all cervical screening samples taken in England have been tested for high-risk HPV, which is more accurate than the previous method of cytology testing (known as a ‘smear test’).

Studies have shown that if a person tests negative for HPV they are extremely unlikely to go on to develop cervical cancer within the next decade, leading to a UK National Screening Committee recommendation to offer more personalised intervals for women based on their risk.

Dr Sue Mann, NHS National clinical director for women’s health, said

“Taking a more personalised approach to cervical screening will help ensure everyone eligible can make the most of these life-saving services, while sparing women appointments that they don’t need.

“The NHS is following robust evidence on how often women need to be safely screened, and by putting invitations and reminders straight in women’s pockets on their phones, we’re making it easier than ever to take up screening appointments.

“Make sure you come forward for your screening when you’re invited, even if it was weeks, months or years ago. If you think you are due but have not yet had an invitation, speak to your GP practice.”

Questions you might have

What is HPV?

HPV (human papillomavirus) is a common virus. Most people get it at some point, and it usually goes away on its own.

HPV causes nearly all cervical cancers, but we can make this a thing of the past thanks to cervical screening and HPV vaccination.

It is important to remember that having HPV does not mean that you have or will develop cervical cancer.

What is HPV testing?

High-risk HPV testing is a more sensitive and accurate test than the previous screening method (known as a smear test), which tested for abnormal cells.

It is the best way to find out who is at higher risk of developing the cervical cell changes that over time could potentially lead to cervical cancer.

Why is this change happening?

It is backed by robust scientific evidence. Studies have shown that if you test negative for HPV you are extremely unlikely to go on to develop cervical cancer within the next 10 years.

This better test means you don’t need to be screened as often if you don’t have HPV.

How will I get my invitation?

The NHS is now sending screening invitations and reminders through the NHS App.

 You’ll get:

• A notification in the NHS App
•  A text reminder if you don’t open the app message

This makes it easier and faster to book your test — and helps save lives.

Letters will remain in place for those who need them.

Will everyone move onto this new 5 yearly screening pathway automatically?

No. Next test due dates will not be changed retrospectively. You will be invited at the interval in which you were advised of at the time of your last test.

Only those who attend cervical screening on or after 1 July, and meet the clinical criteria, will have their next test due date set at 5 years.

Will everyone aged 25-49 move to a 5 year screening if they test negative after 1 July?

No. If your test result is negative but your last test (taken within the last 5 years) showed an HPV positive result, you will still be invited for screening in 3 years time.

This is so we can continue to monitor your HPV status. If you test negative for HPV at that next test, then you’ll move to 5 year screening.

What happens if I test positive for HPV?

It’s important to remember that having HPV does not mean that you have or will develop cervical cancer.

• If HPV is found, but no cell changes, you’ll be tested again in 1 year.
• If HPV and cell changes are found, you’ll be sent to a special clinic called colposcopy to look more closely at your cervix.

I’ve had an HPV vaccination, do I still need to have cervical screening?

The HPV vaccine doesn’t protect against all strains of HPV. That’s why it’s important that you attend your cervical screening appointment even if you’ve been vaccinated.