What is the Cervical Screening Test?
The Cervical Screening Test replaced the Pap smear in December 2017. Instead of looking for cell changes, it checks for human papillomavirus (HPV), a common infection that causes most cervical cancers. Finding HPV early means any changes can be monitored or treated long before they develop into cancer. Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, and regular screening is a big reason why.
Who should screen and how often?
Under the National Cervical Screening Program, women and people with a cervix who are aged 25 to 74 and have ever had any sexual contact, with a person of any gender, are invited to screen every five years. This applies even if:
- you’ve had the HPV vaccine
- you feel completely well and have no symptoms
- you’ve been with the same partner for a long time, or are not currently sexually active
If it’s been more than five years, or you’re not sure when you last screened, you may be due. Your GP can check the National Cancer Screening Register.
What is self-collection?
Since July 2022, everyone eligible for cervical screening can choose to collect their own sample. You use a small swab, similar to a long cotton bud, which is inserted a few centimetres into the vagina and rotated for 20 to 30 seconds. It doesn’t need a speculum and is usually done in a private space at the clinic. Self-collected samples are as accurate as clinician-collected samples for detecting HPV.
Many people find self-collection quicker and more comfortable, and it can be a good option if you’ve felt nervous, had a difficult experience or put off screening in the past.
Self-collected or clinician-collected?
Both options test for HPV. In some situations, for example if you have symptoms such as unusual bleeding, pain or discharge, your GP may recommend a clinician-collected test so they can examine the cervix. Your GP can help you choose what’s right for you.
Don’t wait for screening if you have symptoms
Screening is for people without symptoms. If you notice bleeding after sex or between periods, bleeding after menopause, unusual discharge or pain during sex, see your GP, whenever your last screening test was.
Booking at Delacombe Medical Centre
When you book, let reception know you’d like a cervical screening appointment so the right amount of time is set aside. If you’d prefer to see a female GP, you can filter by gender in our GP finder on the homepage. Ask reception if any fee applies to your appointment.
Understanding HPV
HPV is a very common virus that most people who have ever been sexually active will have at some point. In most cases the body clears it on its own within a year or two. Sometimes, certain types of HPV persist and can cause changes to cervical cells, which can develop into cervical cancer over many years. Because this process is usually slow, screening every five years gives plenty of opportunity to find and manage changes early.
What your results mean
Most people receive a result showing no HPV was found, and they are due again in five years. If HPV is found, it doesn’t mean you have cancer. Depending on the type, you may be asked to repeat the test in 12 months, or have a further test. If you self-collected and HPV is found, you may be asked to return for a clinician-collected sample so the cells can be checked. Your GP will explain what your result means and the next steps.
Making screening easier
Many people put off screening because they feel embarrassed, have had a painful experience, have a history of trauma, or simply find it hard to make time. It is completely okay to talk about this with your GP. You can ask for a female GP, bring a support person, choose self-collection, or ask to take things slowly. Telehealth appointments for self-collection are also available for people in regional Victoria through some services.
Screening is for everyone with a cervix
Cervical screening is recommended for women and people with a cervix, including trans men and non-binary people who have a cervix, and people of any sexual orientation. If you have had a hysterectomy, ask your GP whether you still need screening, as it depends on the type of surgery and your history.
Women’s health in Delacombe
Several of our GPs have interests in women’s health, and you can search for a female GP in our GP finder. Our practice also offers general women’s health appointments, including contraception and pregnancy care, so screening can often be done at the same time as another appointment if time allows. Let reception know when you book.
Cervical screening in Ballarat
Book cervical screening in Ballarat’s west with a female GP at Delacombe Medical Centre. Self-collection is available, and you can choose your GP online. Women’s health.
Frequently asked questions
Self-collection is generally quick and comfortable. A clinician-collected test may feel uncomfortable for a moment. Let your GP know if you’re worried, as there are ways to make it easier.
Yes. The vaccine doesn’t protect against every type of HPV that can cause cancer, so screening is still recommended.
Your GP will let you know how results will be followed up. Most results are normal, and you will be due again in five years.
Sources and further reading
This article is general health information and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Information is current as at November 2026 and may change. Always speak with your GP about your own health. In an emergency, call 000.
Talk to a GP about your health
Bulk billed for eligible patients with a valid Medicare card. Open seven days at Delacombe Town Centre.
