About cervical screening (smear)

Cervical screening is a free health test available on the NHS as part of the national cervical screening programme. It helps prevent cervical cancer by checking for a virus called high-risk HPV and cervical cell changes. 

Who can have a smear

You should be invited for cervical screening if you have a cervix. Women are usually born with a cervix, however trans men, non-binary and intersex people may also have one.

In the UK, you are automatically invited for cervical screening if you are:

  • between the ages of 25 to 64
  • registered as female with a GP practice

If you are not registered as female with your GP practice, but have a cervix you are still eligible, and welcome to request cervical screening.

When you can have a smear

Currently women aged 25 to 49 years old receive invitations every 3 years. Women aged 50 to 64 years old receive invitations every 5 years. You may get your first invite up to 6 months before you turn 25 years old. You can book an appointment as soon as you get the invite. Cervical Screening is offered in all Community CaSH venues and in some Sexual Health Hubs (GUM) by regionally trained nurses.

Cervical screening - Q&A