Cervical Screening: 10 Commonly Asked Questions Answered

Cervical screenings can feel mysterious or even intimidating, especially if you’ve never had one before. But they’re a simple, crucial step in protecting your health. Every year, over 650,000 women worldwide are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and many more live with HPV, the virus that can lead to it. The good news is that regular cervical screenings help catch issues early—before they become more serious. Whether you’re curious about how often to get tested, what to expect during the procedure, or what it means if your results are abnormal, we’ve got the answers to help you feel more informed and at ease.

Cervical Screening: 10 Commonly Asked Questions Answered

1. What Is a Cervical Screening?

A cervical screening is a procedure that’s designed to check the health of the cervix. It can detect HPV and changes in the cells of the cervix that may indicate cancer.

2. How Often Should I Get a Cervical Screening?

In general, experts recommend that women ages 21 through 29 have a cervical screening every three years. Click here to learn more.

From the ages of 30 through 65, screenings are recommended every five years. Those with higher risk factors for developing cervical cancer should consider more frequent screenings.

3. What Happens During a Cervical Screening?

During a cervical screening, a doctor or nurse will collect a small sample of cells from your cervix. This usually involves swabbing the cervix with a soft brush. From there, the cells will be sent to a lab for testing. The screening process generally takes about five minutes.

4. Are Cervical Screenings Painful?

No, cervical screenings aren’t painful. That said, many women find them a bit uncomfortable. They’re usually over quickly, and any discomfort they cause is very short-lived.

5. At What Age Should I Start Getting Cervical Screenings?

For most women, starting screenings at the age of 21 is recommended. You should continue with screenings as recommended until at least the age of 65.

6. Can I Get a Cervical Screening During My Period?

It’s best to avoid having a cervical screening during your period because doing so can affect your test results. Try to schedule appointments one to two weeks after your period.

7. Can I Have a Cervical Screening If I’m Pregnant?

Yes, most women can have a cervical screening during pregnancy. It’s a safe procedure for both the mother and the baby, and it’s generally a part of normal prenatal care.

8. Do I Need a Cervical Screening if I’ve Taken the HPV Vaccine?

Yes, you should still have regular cervical screenings even if you’ve had the HPV vaccine. Vaccines don’t protect against all types of HPV that can cause cervical cancer.

9. Are There Any Risks With Cervical Screenings?

Cervical screenings are extremely safe. In most cases, the only risks associated with these tests are possible light bleeding after the fact. In truth, the risks of not having routine screenings are far higher than those of the test itself.

10. What Happens if My Results Are Abnormal?

Abnormal results don’t necessarily mean you have cervical cancer. They simply mean abnormal cells were detected in your sample. If your results are abnormal, your doctor may recommend further testing or more frequent screenings.

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Conclusion: Why Cervical Screenings Are Important

Taking the time for regular cervical screenings is one of the best ways to look after yourself. Since HPV often doesn’t cause any symptoms, these tests can catch changes in your cervix that might go unnoticed. It’s not about worrying—it’s about staying one step ahead. Armed with the right information, you can face your screenings with confidence, knowing that each appointment is a step towards a healthier future. If any of the questions above have been on your mind, we hope they’ve been answered, making the process a little less daunting. Remember, your health is worth it.