Cervical screening is one of the most important preventive health tools available to women. Yet many are unsure what it involves, how often you should have it, and why it changed from the older Pap smear. This guide explains how cervical screening works, what to expect during the test, when you should go, and how Sirona Women’s Health in Brisbane supports you through every step of your cervical screening journey.
Why Cervical Screening Matters
The role of human papillomavirus (HPV)
Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by persistent infection with certain high-risk types of HPV. Detecting HPV before it causes cell changes helps prevent cancer.
Transition from Pap smear to Cervical Screening Test (CST)
Before December 2017, Pap smears (cytology) were done every two years for many women. Since then, Australia transitioned to a five-yearly Cervical Screening Test (HPV DNA test) for people aged 25 to 74 who have a cervix.
This change allows for earlier HPV detection, longer safe intervals between screens, and better prevention of cervical cancer.
Who should have cervical screening and when
- If you have a cervix, screening is recommended every 5 years between ages 25 and 74.
- If you’ve had a total hysterectomy (removal of uterus and cervix) for non-cancer reasons, your specialist may recommend stopping screening depending on history.
- Vaccination against HPV reduces risk but does not replace the need for screening.
If you live in Brisbane, your GP or women’s health clinic can help you schedule regular cervical screening tests and ensure your results are up to date.
How the Test Works & What to Expect
Clinician-collected sampling
- You lie comfortably, and a speculum is gently inserted to view the cervix.
- A small brush or swab is used to collect cells from the cervix.
- The process takes just a few minutes and is generally well tolerated.
- It’s normal to feel mild discomfort or pressure – but severe pain is uncommon.
Self-collection option
Since July 2022, people who are overdue or have never screened can often choose a self-collected vaginal swab instead of a speculum test.
Self-collection allows privacy and may reduce anxiety, while maintaining screening accuracy for HPV detection.
If HPV is found in a self-collected test, a clinician-collected follow-up may be required.
What happens after collection
- The sample is sent to a pathology lab for HPV DNA testing.
- If high-risk HPV is not detected, the next test is in 5 years.
- If HPV is detected, the lab may test further for cell changes (cytology) or refer for colposcopy.
- In rare cases, a result may be “unsatisfactory,” meaning cells couldn’t be assessed – then you’ll be asked to repeat the test in 6–12 weeks.
Women in Brisbane can have their cervical screening test performed at their local GP clinic or at a dedicated women’s health centre like Sirona Women’s Health, where experienced practitioners ensure a comfortable and supportive experience.
Understanding Your Results & Next Steps
Result | Meaning | What Happens Next |
No HPV detected | The test did not find high-risk HPV types | Return in 5 years for routine screening |
Low-risk HPV detected | Non-cancerous HPV types are present | May require retest in 12 months |
High-risk HPV detected | HPV types linked to cervical cancer found | Additional testing/cytology or referral to specialist |
Unsatisfactory | Sample inadequate for evaluation | Repeat test in 6–12 weeks |
If further evaluation is needed, your clinician may perform a colposcopy, examine the cervix in more detail, possibly take a biopsy, and recommend management if abnormal cell changes are found.
Even if HPV is detected, it does not mean you have cancer – many HPV infections clear naturally.
Tips to Feel More Comfortable with Cervical Screening
- Choose a clinician you trust and feel comfortable with
- Schedule the test when you’re not menstruating, if possible
- Practice relaxation techniques (deep breathing, distraction)
- Inform the clinician of past painful experiences or anxiety
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing for ease
- Bring someone for support if that helps
If you’re based in Brisbane and feel anxious about cervical screening, Sirona Women’s Health provides a calm and supportive environment designed to make your experience as stress-free as possible.
How Often to Screen & When You May Need More Frequent Testing
- Under normal circumstances: every 5 years between ages 25 and 74
- If you’ve had prior abnormal results, or immune suppression, your clinician may recommend more frequent monitoring
- Some people may “exit” from screening after age 74 if they’ve consistently had normal tests and no history of abnormalities
If you’re unsure when your next cervical screening test is due, speak to your GP or book a consultation with Sirona Women’s Health Brisbane for guidance.
Why Sirona Women’s Health Supports Your Screening Journey
At Sirona Women’s Health in Brisbane, we provide compassionate, evidence-based cervical screening as part of our Cancer Screening service. You can ask your GP or women’s health specialist about either a clinician-collected test or self-collection, depending on your eligibility.
Screening is one piece of preventive health – we also offer comprehensive women’s checkups (see our General Health page) and support for other stages of life, including Menopause care.
As always, you’re invited to explore more about how we deliver tailored preventive care by visiting our homepage and our Cancer Screening page.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or care. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or medical condition.