The National Cervical Screening Program has expanded its screening test options, with self-collection available for those who would prefer to take the sample themselves at the GP clinic.
The changes, which took effect from 1 July, provide any person eligible for cervical screening the choice to self-collect or have their health professional perform the test for them.
If you choose to self-collect your sample, you will undertake the sample at the GP clinic but will have privacy to do so, either with a screen or in a bathroom. Your GP will also be available should you need further instruction or assistance.
Anyone with a cervix, between 25-74 years old who has ever been sexually active is eligible for free cervical screening tests.
The five-yearly cervical screening test detects the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can cause changes in the cells of the cervix.
New evidence suggests that a self-collected sample is as accurate as a clinician-collected sample and screening for HPV every 5 years is more effective than a pap test every 2 years as done previously.
For more information, speak to your GP or visit the National Cervical Screening Program web page.
More information about the self-collection can be found here.