Cervical screening in Northern Ireland
Aged 25-64? If you're registered as female with your GP, you will automatically be invited to take part in cervical screening.
Cervical screening is for people with no symptoms and it can save lives. So when you’re invited, don’t ignore it.
How cervical screening helps beat cancer
Screening can pick up early changes that could develop into cervical cancer if left untreated. It isn’t a test for cancer; it helps prevent it.
You must be registered with a GP to receive a screening invitation. If you need to register, find a local GP here.
I was young and healthy and hadn't experienced any symptoms... The test takes minutes, and although it can feel uncomfortable and undignified, it can also save lives. Had I left it a few more months to go for a test, I might now be facing a completely different journey with a very different outcome. Instead, I'm happy, healthy and determined to enjoy every new challenge and experience that comes my way!
Gem
Trans and non-binary people
Your sex assigned at birth, hormones, or surgeries you may have had, may impact what screening programmes are suitable for you. Your gender identity should not affect your access to screening, so speak to your GP for advice.
The cervical screening process
Booking your appointment
If you're aged 25 to 49, you will get a cervical screening invitation in the post every 3 years. After that, you will receive one every 5 years until you reach 64. Call your GP practice to book your screening with a practice nurse.
At your appointment
The appointment will take about 10 minutes. Your nurse will gently slide an instrument called a speculum into your vagina to see your cervix. They will then gently brush cells from the cervix for testing. You're in control and can stop the test at any point if you want to.
Getting your results
Your results will be sent to your doctor, usually within 8 weeks. They will say if you need further tests; most people don't need these.
Cervical screening is your choice
Whether or not you go for screening is your choice. Read the information in your invitation and learn more about the cervical screening programme to decide if you’d like to take part.
All screening programmes have both possible benefits and risks, and the balance is different for each type of cancer screening.
Concerns or questions about cervical screening?
Some people might feel nervous or embarrassed about cervical screening, but there are ways to make it easier and more comfortable. Don’t forget, your health professional carries out screening tests every day.
Know what to expect
Learning what to expect at your appointment can help you feel more prepared. Watch our video of a cervical screening appointment, and read our advice on how to make it more comfortable for you.
Ask for support
Whether it’s your first cervical screening or you’ve been before, talking about it can help. Ask your GP or practice nurse any questions, and you can also bring a friend or family member to your appointment for support.
Make screening work for you
From getting an invite to receiving your screening results, read our article for tips, advice and simple things you can do to make the screening process easier.
While it’s natural to feel nervous, remember that your GP practice is here to support you and answer any questions you may have. Don’t hesitate to ask for adjustments or more information. Even if you’ve been before, let us know if you are worried, and we can discuss how to make the appointment more comfortable for you.
Dr Jonathan Dillon, Northern Ireland
Frequently asked questions
I have symptoms, should I wait for my screening test?
No. Screening is for people without symptoms. It is important to speak to your doctor if something doesn’t look or feel quite right - even if you’ve recently been screened or you are waiting to be screened.
Will a female nurse do my cervical screening?
A female nurse (or doctor) usually does the screening test. You can check before your appointment if you’d like to request a male or female health professional.
Will cervical screening be painful?
Most people find it a little uncomfortable or that it doesn’t hurt at all, but it’s different for everyone. Speak with your doctor or nurse if you have concerns about this. There are things you can ask them to do to make it more comfortable for you, such as using a different sized speculum, changing position or using water-based lubricant. Go to the Your cervical screening appointment page for more tips like these.
For more information, including advice on who should consider getting cervical screening, visit our cervical screening webpage.
I didn't have any symptoms at all when I was diagnosed which shows how important the cervical screening tests are! I had a radical hysterectomy the month after my diagnosis and I'm fully recovered. I was monitored for five years and have now been told I’m cancer-free.
Eileen
Other screening programmes in Northern Ireland
There are 3 national cancer screening programmes - for bowel, cervical and breast.
Other cervical screening resources