What does HPV self-testing mean for cervical screening in England?

The NHS in England is introducing a new option for cervical screening called HPV self-testing, which allows some people to perform the test themselves at home. This is different from the traditional method where a nurse or doctor collects a sample during a screening appointment. HPV self-testing aims to encourage more people, particularly those who may face barriers like embarrassment, mobility issues, or time constraints, to participate in cervical screening, ultimately helping to reduce health inequalities.

Eligible individuals aged 30 to 65 who have not previously participated in cervical screening will receive an invite to take part in the self-testing program. A free HPV self-testing kit will be sent to their home, which includes a swab for collecting cells from the vagina. The sample is then sent to the NHS free of charge for testing.

If no high-risk HPV is detected, the individual will be invited for routine cervical screening in five years if they remain within the eligible age range. However, if high-risk HPV is found, the person will be invited for a follow-up screening test with a healthcare professional to check for any abnormal cells. This new approach to cervical screening is designed to provide a more accessible and comfortable option for individuals who find traditional screening challenging.