Cervical screening is one of the most effective tools we have for preventing cervical cancer. In recent years, the NHS has updated how screening works — moving from the old “smear test” method to a more advanced approach called HPV primary screening. This change has also led to a new screening interval: if your test is HPV‑negative, you’ll now be invited every 5 years instead of every 3.

So what does this mean, and why is it safe? Let’s break it down.

 

What Is HPV and Why Do We Test for It First?

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a very common virus passed through skin‑to‑skin sexual contact. Most people will have it at some point, often without knowing and usually the body’s own immune response will eradicate it.

Crucially, almost all cervical cancers are caused by persistent infection with high‑risk HPV. This means HPV infection happens before any abnormal cervical cell changes develop.

Because HPV is the root cause, testing for it first is the most accurate way to identify who is at risk. Research shows HPV testing is more sensitive and reliable than the old cytology‑only method.

Why the Screening Interval Has Changed to 5 Years

If your screening result shows no high‑risk HPV, your risk of developing cervical cancer in the next several years is extremely low.

Large national studies — including research led by King’s College London — found that screening every 5 years after a negative HPV test is just as safe as screening every 3 years.

This evidence led the UK National Screening Committee to recommend extending the interval for HPV‑negative individuals aged 25–49. This change has begun being implemented nationally since 1 July 2025.

 

Why 5 years is safe if HPV is negative:

· HPV‑negative = extremely low risk of cervical cancer

· HPV infection must be present before cell changes occur

· Without HPV, abnormal cells are very unlikely to develop

· Studies show the same level of protection with fewer tests

What Happens If HPV Is Found?

If your screening detects high‑risk HPV, your sample is automatically checked for abnormal cells:

· HPV positive + no abnormal cells → repeat screening in 1 year

· HPV positive + abnormal cells → referral for colposcopy

· Persistent HPV for 2 years → colposcopy even if cells look normal

This ensures anyone at higher risk is monitored more closely.

 

Why Staying Up to Date With Recalls Is So Important

Even with improved testing, cervical screening only works if you attend when invited.

Staying up to date matters because:

· HPV can appear at any time as it can lie dormant for months, years or even decades

· Most cervical cancers occur in people who were not screened regularly

· Early detection prevents around 70% of cervical cancers in the UK

· Screening saves thousands of lives every year

Your recall interval depends on your most recent result. If you’ve ever had HPV in the last 5 years, you may still be invited sooner than 5 years to ensure proper monitoring.

What This Means for You

If you’re aged 25–49:

· You’ll still be invited as normal.

· If your result is HPV‑negative, your next test will be due in 5 years.

· If HPV is found, you’ll be monitored more closely.

If you’re 50–64, nothing changes — screening remains every 5 years.

 

Screening Saves Lives — Don’t Ignore Your Invitation

Cervical screening is quick, free, and one of the most powerful cancer‑prevention tools we have. The move to HPV testing means better accuracy, earlier detection, and safer long‑term protection.

If you receive an invitation, book your appointment — even if you feel well, even if you’ve had the HPV vaccine, and even if you’ve had the same partner for years.

Your future health is worth those ten minutes.