Find cutting edge cancer clinical trials near you using the new Victorian Cancer Trials Link.

Search now

Self-collection now available for cervical screening

Friday 11 November, 2022

Cancer Council Victoria, with the Australian Centre for the Prevention of Cervical Cancer, has launched a new campaign to raise awareness of the self-collection option for cervical screening.

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers and can be treated if detected early, yet only an estimated 62 per cent of eligible Victorians are participating in the National Cervical Screening Program.

A Cervical Screening Test (previously known as the Pap Test) is the best way to prevent cervical cancer. The test needs to be done every five years by all women and people with a cervix aged 25-74 who are eligible for cervical screening, even if they have had the HPV vaccine.

Anyone eligible for cervical screening can now choose to self-collect for their next Cervical Screening Test. Self-collection allows people to collect their own vaginal sample with a swab and without the need for a speculum.

The test is quick, easy and done in private at the doctor’s office or other health setting, usually behind a screen or in the bathroom. Importantly, self-collection is just as reliable as a sample collected by a healthcare professional from the cervix using a speculum.

What you can do: If you’re due or overdue for a Cervical Screening Test, speak to your doctor or nurse about the self-collection option. You can also visit www.cancervic.org.au/selfcollection for more information, including a step-by-step guide on how to do the self-collect test.

To find a provider that suits your healthcare needs, use our Cervical Screening Provider Directory or call our experienced cancer nurses for information and support on 13 11 20.

Other stories you may be interested in

The Conversation Hour episode on clinical trials

This episode of the Conversation Hour on ABC Radio Melbourne explores the important role clinical trials play in advancing cancer care and improving outcomes. Listen to the episode here

Connecting the dots around Lynch syndrome to help prevent cancer

Sally was only in her twenties when she found out she may be at high risk of having inherited Lynch syndrome. Read more

Living with Lynch syndrome, and why it’s always better to know

Karen comes from a family with at least three generations of Lynch syndrome, but doesn't let it define her life. Read more

View all stories