Cervical screening is a vital part of maintaining your health, helping to detect changes that could lead to cervical cancer. At The Park Medical Centre, we ensure that eligible patients receive multiple invitations to attend their screening.
Updated Screening Intervals from July 2025
Cervical screening is moving from 3 to 5 year intervals for those aged 24-49 who are at low risk of developing cervical cancer. However, anyone who has had a recent history of an HPV positive test or any changes to cells may be followed up more often—even if their next test comes back negative.
This decision is based on strong clinical evidence and is recommended by the UK National Screening Committee, bringing England into line with Scotland, Wales, and other countries across Europe.
How Cervical Screening Helps Prevent Cancer
Cervical screening collects a sample of cells from your cervix to check for certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Some types of HPV, known as "high risk" types, can cause abnormal changes in cervical cells. If high risk HPV is found, the sample is also checked for abnormal cell changes. If abnormal cells are detected, they can be treated before they develop into cervical cancer.
