The Cervical Screening Test replaced the Pap smear in Australia in 2017, but they are not the same test. The former Pap smear looked mainly for abnormal cervical cells. The current Cervical Screening Test checks primarily for human papillomavirus (HPV), which can cause cervical cell changes over time.
If you are unsure whether you are due for screening or want to understand your options, this article explains the key differences, who needs screening, how the test works, and when to speak with a GP.
If you have questions about cervical screening eligibility or collection options, the women’s health services at Paterson Healthcare can help guide you through your options during a GP consultation.
Key Takeaways
- The Cervical Screening Test replaced the Pap smear in Australia in 2017
- The current test checks primarily for HPV, not just abnormal cells
- Eligible women and people with a cervix generally screen every five years
- Both clinician collection and self-collection are available through a healthcare provider
- Under the National Cervical Screening Program, self-collection must be ordered and overseen by a healthcare provider.
Is a Cervical Screening Test the Same as a Pap Smear?
The tests are related, but they are not the same. The Cervical Screening Test detects HPV first because persistent infection with certain high-risk HPV types causes almost all cervical cancers. The former Pap smear focused on identifying abnormal cervical cells directly.
The Cancer Council Australia explains that the current test looks for HPV, whereas the Pap smear looked for cell changes. This shift means the screening interval has also changed.
| Feature | Cervical Screening Test | Former Pap Smear |
| Main purpose | Detects high-risk HPV | Looked for abnormal cervical cells |
| Routine interval | Generally, every five years | Previously, every two years |
| Collection method | Clinician collection or self-collection | Clinician collection |
| Australian status | Current screening test | Replaced in 2017 |
What Is a Cervical Screening Test and Who Needs One?
The Cervical Screening Test is part of Australia’s National Cervical Screening Program. It is a routine screening test for eligible people without symptoms and checks for high-risk HPV that can cause cervical cell changes over time.
Screening is generally recommended for:
- Women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 74
- Those who have ever had sexual contact
- Routine screening generally every five years
Eligibility and screening intervals are set through the Australian Government National Cervical Screening Program. Screening may still be recommended after HPV vaccination, after menopause, or when no longer sexually active. Individual circumstances such as previous abnormalities or hysterectomy may affect timing, so discussing your situation with a GP is worthwhile.
How Is a Cervical Screening Test Done?
Clinician-Collected Cervical Screening Test
During clinician collection, the healthcare provider gently inserts a speculum to view the cervix and uses a small brush to collect a cervical sample. The sample is then sent to an approved laboratory for HPV testing.
Some people feel pressure or temporary discomfort during collection. Clinician collection may cause pressure or temporary discomfort. Tell the clinician straight away if you feel pain or want the procedure paused. You can ask the clinician to pause or stop at any time.
Self-Collected Cervical Screening Test
Self-collection involves using an approved swab to take a vaginal sample yourself in a private space. A healthcare provider supplies the swab and instructions. The sample is then returned for laboratory testing.
Self-collection does not require a speculum. It must be arranged through a healthcare provider and is not the same as an unsupervised retail test.
Not sure which collection option feels right for you? A GP can explain the available choices and answer questions about privacy, comfort, and eligibility.
What to Expect at the Appointment
Knowing what happens can help reduce uncertainty. A cervical screening appointment typically involves:
- A discussion about eligibility and any previous screening results
- An explanation of collection options, where appropriate
- The opportunity to ask questions before providing consent
- Privacy throughout the appointment
- Sample collection, which usually takes only a few minutes
- Information about how and when results will be communicated
- The option to request a female healthcare provider, where available
Being overdue does not prevent you from booking. A GP can help check when your next test is due and discuss the available options. Speaking with a GP is a practical first step regardless of how long it has been.
How Much Does a Cervical Screening Test Cost?
There is a Medicare rebate for eligible cervical screening pathology, and most pathology providers bulk-bill the laboratory processing for eligible patients. However, a consultation fee or other clinic charge may still apply depending on the appointment type.
Paterson Healthcare bulk bills eligible standard and long consultations, but billing can depend on the appointment and service provided. Check the fees and bulk billing information or ask reception whether any charges apply before booking.
Ask reception whether the test is available at the practice and whether any consultation or service fee may apply before booking.
What Happens After the Test?
If HPV is not detected, the next routine screen is generally due in five years. If HPV is detected, the next step depends on the HPV type and clinical pathway. This may involve further cervical sampling, repeat testing, or referral for specialist assessment.
A positive HPV result does not automatically mean cervical cancer. Your healthcare provider will explain the result and guide the appropriate follow-up based on your individual circumstances.
When Should You See a GP Rather Than Wait for Screening?
Routine cervical screening is for people without relevant symptoms. If you experience any of the following, speak with a GP rather than waiting for your next screening:
- Bleeding after sex
- Unexplained bleeding between periods
- Bleeding after menopause
- Persistent unusual vaginal discharge
- Pain during sex or unexplained pelvic pain
These symptoms do not necessarily mean something serious, but they should be assessed clinically rather than managed through routine screening alone.
Discuss Cervical Screening With a GP in Paterson
A GP can help you check whether you are due for screening, discuss clinician collection and self-collection options, and answer questions about discomfort, privacy, previous results, or costs. If you are overdue or unsure about your eligibility, a conversation with your GP is a practical and pressure-free starting point.
To check whether you are due or to discuss cervical screening options in Paterson, contact Paterson Healthcare to arrange a GP appointment.
FAQs
Is a Cervical Screening Test just a new Pap smear?
No. It replaced the Pap smear but checks primarily for HPV rather than beginning by looking for abnormal cervical cells.
Can I do a self-collected Cervical Screening Test at home?
Self-collection may take place at home or another suitable setting following consultation with a healthcare provider. The provider must order the test, arrange the swab and pathology request, communicate the result and organise any required follow-up.
Does a Cervical Screening Test hurt?
Experiences differ. Some people feel pressure or temporary discomfort during clinician collection. You can tell the clinician to pause or stop at any point.
Do I need cervical screening if I had the HPV vaccine?
Yes. Eligible people still need routine screening because the vaccine does not protect against every HPV type associated with cervical cancer.
Does a positive HPV result mean cervical cancer?
No. It means HPV was detected. Your healthcare provider will explain whether repeat testing, another sample, or further assessment is needed.
Resources and References
- Australian Government — National Cervical Screening Program
- Healthdirect Australia — Cervical Screening Test
- Cancer Institute NSW — About the Cervical Screening Test