What is a Cervical Screening Test (CST)?
A Cervical Screening (previously called a Pap smear in Australia) is a test that checks for the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV), which can cause cervical cell changes that may lead to cervical cancer.
A small sample of cells is collected from the cervix using a swab or brush.
What is the difference between a CST and a Pap Smear?
The Cervical Screening Test (CST) is different from the Pap smear in several keys ways:
What they Detect:
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Pap Smear: Looks for abnormal cervical cells (which could indicate precancerous changes)
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Cervical Screening Test (CST): Tests for human papillomavirus (HPV), the virus that causes most cervical cancers.
Frequency of Testing:
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Pap Smear: Every 2 years.
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Cervical Screening Test (CST): Every 5 years (if no HPV is found).
Sensitivity and Effectiveness:
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Pap Smear: Detects cell changes but not the cause (HPV).
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Cervical Screening Test (CST): Identifies HPV before is causes cell changes, allowing for earlier intervention and better prevention.
When it Starts:
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Pap Smear: Started at around age 18.
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Cervical Screening Test (CST): Starts at age 25, as research shows screening younger does not significantly reduce cervical cancer rates.
Sample Collection:
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The procedure is the same, a healthcare provider uses a small brush to collect cells from the cervix. However, self-collection is now an option for some people.
What is HPV?
HPV stands for human papillomavirus.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a widespread infection that often doesn’t show any symptoms and typically clears up on its own.
The virus spreads through intimate genital skin-to-skin contact, affecting both men and women. It is not transmitted through semen, blood, or saliva.
Even with condom use, HPV can still be passed on since condoms don’t cover all of the genital skin. You can contract HPV the first time you have sex and even if you have just one sexual partner.
There are various types of HPV. Some types cause genital warts and are not linked to cancer, while others can lead to serious health issues, including cancer.
Can I complete a self collection for Cervical Screening?
In Australia, self-collection cervical screening is available to women and people with a cervix who meet the following criteria:
Age Group:
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Self-collection is available for women aged 25 to 74 years.
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Women should start cervical screening at age 25 (or two years after their last pap smear, if applicable).
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Screening continues until 74 years, provided they have had regular tests and results have been normal
Eligibility for Self-Collection:
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Anyone participating in the National Cervical Screening Program who is due for a screening test is eligible for self-collection.
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Self-collection is an alternative to the traditional speculum exam (where a healthcare professional collects the sample), and allows individuals to collect the sample themselves in a private and less invasive manner.
Current Screening Guidelines:
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Women with no symptoms: If you have no symptoms of cervical abnormalities, you are eligible for self-collection.
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First time screening: If it's your first time participating in cervical screening, you can choose self-collection.
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Previous screening results: Those who are due for their routine screening after a normal result are also eligible for self-collection.
Other Considerations:
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Transgender men or non-binary individuals: Those who still have a cervix are also eligible for self-collection screening under the same guidelines.
Access and guidance:
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Your healthcare provider can guide you through the process of self-collection, explaining how to use the collection device and answering any questions you might have.
Note:
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Self-collection does not change the overall screening process or eligibility for cervical screening but provides an alternative option that can make the test more comfortable and less invasive.
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If you’re unsure whether you're eligible or want more details about self-collection, it's a good idea to discuss with your GP or healthcare provider, who can offer specific guidance for your situation.
Did you know?
You are able to view your Cancer Screening History to your MyGov account, so you can always check when you are due!
How to link National Cancer Screening Register to your myGov account?
Cervical Screening Practitioners
The experienced female practitioners provide compassionate, personalised care for women at every stage of life. From routine screenings to specialised treatments, we’re here to support your health and wellbeing with a patient-first approach.
