Cervical screening in the UK
Are you eligible for NHS screening?
To be invited for cervical screening you need to be registered with a GP, who needs to have your current address on file. The NHS call and re-call system invites all women who are eligible for screening and registered with a GP. This system also keeps track of any follow-up investigation, and, if all is well, re-calls you for screening at the appropriate time for you - either three to five years (check the table below). It is important that you ensure that your GP has any change of circumstance or address.
The age of invitation for cervical screening varies according to country. Please check the chart (below) for your region.
| Country | Eligibility |
| England | Women aged 25 to 49 invited every three years Women aged 50 to 64 invited every five years |
| Northern Ireland | Women aged 25 to 49 invited every three years Women aged 50 to 64 invited every five years |
| Scotland | Women aged 20 to 60 invited every three years |
| Wales | Women aged 20 to 64 invited every three years |
Women who are eligible and who have not previously had a cervical screening may be offered one when they attend their GP or family planning clinic on another matter. Women in England should receive their first invitation for routine screening by their 25th birthday, Women in Scotland by their 20th birthday etc. If you are eligible and have not received an invitation to attend for cervical screening then you should contact your GP.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of cervical cancer please consult your GP as soon as possible (even if you are not due for a cervical screening).
Last updated: 07/10/2011
