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Three things you need to know about cervical screening

Regular exercise, drinking water, eating healthily – these are the things we try to prioritise to look after our health and nourish our bodies. Adding cervical screening to that list is one of the best ways to stay well for the future.

If you’re aged 25 to 74 and have a cervix, you can prevent cervical cancer through cervical screening. One test every five years can detect HPV in your cervix before it has the chance to cause changes to cells which can lead to cancer.

Cervical screening is an act of self-care, take your health into your own hands and book your test today. Here are three things to remember:

  1. A better test, less often. In December 2017, cervical screening changed in Australia. The two-yearly Pap test was replaced with a five-yearly Cervical Screening Test. The new test looks for HPV – the main cause of cervical cancer and is just as safe and more effective than the old Pap test. To find out more about the changes to cervical screening, visit our cervical screening website.
  2. The best protection against cervical cancer. Globally, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women, yet it is a largely preventable condition. Regular cervical screening is your best protection against cervical cancer. Speak to your GP to see if you’re up to date with cervical screening.
  3. Your body, your choice. You can book a Cervical Screening Test with any health care provider who does cervical screening – nurses, GPs, gynaecologists. There are choices available. Visit our directory of cervical screening providers across Victoria to find one that meets your needs.

So, what’s it really like having a Cervical Screening Test?

Robyn, aged 26, shares her experience

Robyn

Going for my first Cervical Screening Test, I felt nervous and a little anxious. I was scared about what was going to happen and what was expected of me.

I called ahead and made an appointment with a female practitioner as this helped me to feel more comfortable, knowing that they would be able to relate to my experience.

During my appointment, I asked lots of questions about the procedure. I think this helped to put my mind at ease.

It was a little uncomfortable, but it did not hurt me. After, I felt so proud of myself for going to my appointment, staying calm and pushing through. It really wasn’t as bad as what I thought it would be. 

My advice to others is – do some research, have a look online about what to expect and what happens at a cervical screening appointment.

On the day of your appointment, try to stay as calm as possible, wear loose clothing and use the toilet beforehand so you don’t have a full bladder!


If you’re aged 25 to 74 and have a cervix, you need to have a Cervical Screening Test every five years. This test offers your best protection against cervical cancer.

To find out more about cervical screening and to find a provider that meets your needs, visit: cancervic.org.au/at-your-cervix

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