Cervical screening (a smear test) checks the health of your cervix. It’s not a test for cancer, it’s a test to help prevent cancer.
During the screening appointment, a small sample of cells will be taken from your cervix, the sample is checked for certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) that can cause changes to the cells of your cervix. These are called “high risk” types of HPV. If these types of HPV are found, the sample is then checked for any changes in the cells of your cervix.
These can then be treated before they get a chance to turn into cervical cancer. If these types of HPV are not found, you don’t need any further tests.
You will get your results by letter, usually in about weeks. It will explain what happens next.
All women aged 25-64 will receive an invite to attend an appointment at your GP surgery for a cervical screening. You should receive an invite up to 6 months before you turn 25, then every 3 years from 25-49, and every 5 years from 50-64.
When you are 65 or over you would only receive an invite if your last 3 results were abnormal.
The above information is from the NHS website, for more information head to NHS Cervical Screening.