What is a Cervical Screening Test? Procedures, HPV Testing & Why It Matters
As women, we often put off our health checks for various reasons. Even then, while we pay attention to breast health, bone density, and heart health, one of the most critical aspects of our well-being is sometimes overlooked: cervical health.
Many of us have heard the term, but few truly understand why it's so important or what to expect. Cervical cancer develops silently over many years, often without noticeable symptoms, making early detection crucial. It's the most serious outcome of ongoing infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). In fact, it can take 10 to 15 years for a persistent HPV infection to progress into cervical cancer.
That’s why regular cervical screening is so important. A simple Cervical Screening Test, which includes HPV testing, can detect high-risk HPV and pre-cancerous changes early. This test gives us a wide window of opportunity to act before cancer has a chance to develop.
In this blog, we'll break down everything you need to know about the Cervical Screening Test: the procedure, the role of HPV testing, and why early detection can make all the difference.
What is a Cervical Screening Test?
A cervical screening test is a quick, simple procedure used to check the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV), the most common cause of cervical cancer. Among the many HPV strains, types 16 and 18 are the highest risk, responsible for approximately 70–80% of cervical cancers worldwide. HPV is a common virus that, in some cases, can cause cell changes in the cervix. If left untreated, these abnormal cells have the potential to develop into cervical cancer.
The old test to screen for cervical cancer was referred to as a "Pap Smear". It has since been replaced with Cervical Screening Test (CST) in December 2017. The Pap Smear primarily looked for abnormal cells themselves. The new Cervical Screening test is more advanced, which primarily done for screening the HPV virus. The new approach is more effective and allows for longer screening intervals.
Who should get a cervical screening test?
Cervical screening is recommended for women and people with a cervix who fall within specific age groups, depending on national health guidelines.
Age group: Women with a cervix aged 25 to 74 years should have a cervical screening test every 5 years. (Provided results are normal).
Under 25: Screening is usually not recommended because HPV infections are very common in younger people and often clear up naturally without causing long-term issues.
Over 74: Screening may no longer be needed if you’ve had regular normal test results, but your doctor may advise otherwise based on your health history.
After hysterectomy: If you’ve had your cervix removed, you may not need cervical screening, unless the surgery was related to cancer or precancerous changes.
Vaccinated against HPV: Even if you’ve had the HPV vaccine, you still need cervical screening because the vaccine doesn’t protect against all high-risk HPV strains.
Understanding HPV and Its Role in Cervical Cancer
When we talk about cervical health, one name that often comes up is human papillomavirus (HPV). What makes HPV so concerning is its silent nature. Most people who contract HPV don’t even realise they have it.
For the majority, the body’s immune system clears the infection naturally. But in some cases, the virus doesn’t go away. Instead, it lingers in the cervix and slowly begins to alter normal cells. Over many years, sometimes as long as 10 to 15 years, these seemingly harmless infections can transform into something far more dangerous, which is cervical cancer.
While there are many strains of HPV, the two important strains causing cancer are HPV 16 and 18.
HPV 16 – Infects the cells of the cervix and can integrate its DNA into the host cells, disrupting normal cell growth and function. Over time, this interference can cause abnormal cell changes, known as precancerous lesions. If these changes are not detected and managed early, they can gradually progress into cervical cancer.
HPV 18 – The second most high-risk strain, HPV 18, accounts for around 10–15% of cervical cancer cases globally. Similar to HPV 16, it can alter the DNA of cervical cells, promoting uncontrolled growth and the formation of abnormal lesions.
As your primary line of defence, HPV testing or cervical screening allows us to identify and monitor a persistent infection. By getting screened on schedule, you get time to treat issues early.
Don’t wait until it’s too late, take control of your cervical health today. Book your consultation with Dr. Priyanka to learn more about HPV testing and preventive care.
The Cervical Test Screening Procedure: How It's Done
A Cervical Screening Test, simple, and routine check-up is crucial for detection of HPV because it can detect problems long before they change into cancer. There are main two ways to get screened: a clinician-collected test and self-collected test. Clinician collected, where a doctor or nurse performs the procedure, and self -collected, which you can do yourself in a private setting. Both clinician-collected and self-collected tests focus on HPV testing to identify high-risk strains that may lead to cervical changes.
What Happens During a Cervical Screening Test?
For a Cinician Collected Smaple
1. The Setup: You will be asked to undress from the waist down behind a privacy screen. You'll be given a sheet or gown to cover yourself. When you are ready, you'll be asked to lie on your back on the examination table with your knees bent and feet resting in stirrups. This position allows your doctor a clear and comfortable view of your cervix.
2. Speculum Insertion: Your doctor will gently insert a smooth, medical instrument called a speculum into your vagina. The speculum is a small, hinged tool that holds the vaginal walls apart, so the cervix can be easily seen. You may feel a slight pressure or a sensation of coolness, but it should not be painful. If it is painful, inform your doctor about it.
3. Sample Collection: Once the cervix is visible, your doctor will use a small, soft brush to gently collect a sample of cells from the cervix. This is the part of the procedure that actually collects the cells for testing. The collection takes only a few seconds. The procedure is quick, and your privacy is always respected.
4. After the Sample: After the sample is collected, the speculum is gently removed. You will then be able to sit up, get dressed, and go about your day as usual.
Self-Collect Cervical Screening Test (CST)
In some cases, women have the option to collect their own cervical sample using a specially designed kit. This self-collect method is simple, private, and can be done at home or in a clinic. It provides a convenient alternative for those who may feel uncomfortable with a clinician-collected test, while still being effective for HPV detection.
What Happens Next? Your Cervical Screening Test Results
After your cervical screening test, the results can fall into several categories. Knowing what each result means helps you understand your risk and what to do next.
1. Negative Test Result
If you’re told to “return to screen in 5 years”, it means no high-risk HPV was detected. This indicates a very low risk of developing cervical cancer. You will usually receive a reminder letter a few months before your next test is due.
2. Unsatisfactory Test Result
An unsatisfactory result means the laboratory could not read your sample. This does not mean something is wrong with your cervix. You will need another test in 6 to 12 weeks to get a clear result.
3. HPV Positive Result
Depending on the type of HPV detected, further steps will be discussed by your doctor or specialist.
4. Referral to a Gynaecologist
This is needed if you have a certain type of HPV and or abnormal cells detected that may need treatment. You may need a minor office procedure called colposcopy. This is where a special microscope called colposcope is used to examine the surface of cervix, vagina and vulva. A small biopsy may be performed for further testing in the laboratory.
What are Symptoms of Cervical Cancer?
Early detection is crucial for successfully treating cervical cancer. While the Cervical Screening Test is the best way to catch it at a pre-cancerous stage, it's also important to be aware of the signs and symptoms that may appear as the cancer progresses. By the time symptoms do show up, the cancer may have begun to spread, which is why paying attention to your body is so important.
Here are some important symptoms that need urgent evaluation by your doctor and or a referral to the Gynaecologist:
Abnormal vaginal bleeding: This is the most common symptom. It can include bleeding after sex, bleeding between periods, or bleeding after menopause.
Unusual vaginal discharge: The discharge may be watery, thick, or have a bad odour. It might also contain blood.
These are only some of the symptoms. If you are concerned, seek medical attention.
Note: These symptoms may not always be caused by cervical cancer. They can also occur due to other medical conditions. If you experience any of these signs, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation.
Take Control of Your Cervical Health with Us!
The Cervical Screening Test is more than just a medical procedure. By understanding its purpose, to detect high-risk HPV and early cell changes before they become cancer, you are taking control of your well-being. Don’t let fear or discomfort stand in the way.
Staying on schedule with your Cervical Screening Test, understanding the role of HPV, and paying attention to any unusual symptoms, you are taking the most powerful and proactive steps to protect yourself from cervical cancer. Even if you don’t notice these symptoms, regular cervical screening and HPV testing are your strongest protection. Remember, early detection can make all the difference, and most cervical changes are treatable when caught in time.
You are not alone in this journey. We provide support, guidance, and care at every step. Prioritising your cervical health is an act of self-care and empowerment that will benefit you for years to come. Book your consultation with Dr. Priyanka and ensure your cervical health is in safe hands.
The content provided in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical, legal, or professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it should not replace consultation with a qualified professional. Always seek the advice of a licensed healthcare provider or Dr. Priyanka Karine regarding any questions or concerns you may have.