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Cervical Screening Test in Perth: What to Expect and When You Need One

A cervical screening test checks for HPV, the virus responsible for almost all cervical cancers, and has replaced the old Pap smear. Most women in Perth need one every 5 years from age 25 to 74. The test itself takes only a few minutes, is usually uncomfortable rather than painful, and self-collection may be an option for you.

If you’ve been putting yours off, you’re not alone. Many women delay cervical screening because it feels awkward, because they’re busy, or because they simply don’t know when they’re due. None of that is anything to feel embarrassed about. This guide covers exactly what the test involves, when to book one, and what happens next — from Athena Women’s Clinic, Bentley.

What Is a Cervical Screening Test?

A cervical screening test is a simple check that looks for high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) in cells taken from the cervix. HPV causes almost all cases of cervical cancer, so testing for the virus itself — rather than only looking at cell changes — catches risk earlier. Australia’s National Cervical Screening Program moved to this HPV-based test in December 2017, replacing the two-yearly Pap smear that many women grew up with.

How Is It Different From a Pap Smear?

Most people still call it a “pap smear” out of habit, but the two tests aren’t quite the same. The sample is taken the same way, using a speculum and a small brush, so the experience feels familiar. What changed is what the lab looks for and how often you need to go.

Pap Smear (before Dec 2017)Cervical Screening Test (now)
Checked for abnormal cervical cellsChecks for high-risk HPV first, then cell changes if needed
Every 2 yearsEvery 5 years, if your result is HPV negative
Recommended from age 18-20Recommended from age 25

When Should You Have Your First Cervical Screening Test?

The recommended starting age in Australia is 25, for anyone with a cervix who has ever been sexually active. Screening continues through to age 74. If you’re unsure whether you’re due — or whether you should start earlier because of your history — that’s a completely reasonable thing to raise with your GP at your next visit.

How Often Do You Need One?

If your result comes back HPV negative, you’re due again in 5 years. That’s a longer gap than the old 2-yearly Pap smear, because the HPV test is better at picking up genuine risk early. If HPV is detected, your doctor will usually recommend a follow-up test sooner, often within 12 months, or further investigation depending on the result.

What Happens During the Test?

The appointment is short and follows a predictable pattern:

  • You’ll be asked a few quick questions about your last test and any symptoms.
  • You’ll undress from the waist down in a private space, with a sheet provided.
  • A speculum is gently inserted so the cervix is visible.
  • A small, soft brush collects a sample of cells from the cervix — this part takes seconds.
  • The sample is sent to a lab, and results are usually available within 1-2 weeks.

Does a Cervical Screening Test Hurt?

For most women, it’s uncomfortable rather than painful — a bit of pressure or a strange sensation for a few seconds. Being tense can make it feel worse, so tell your doctor if you’re nervous; they can slow down, use a smaller speculum, or talk you through each step. If you’ve experienced pain during previous tests, mention this beforehand so your appointment can be adjusted for you.

Is Self-Collection an Option?

Self-collection is now available for many people as an alternative to a doctor-collected sample — you take your own swab, in private, during your appointment. It’s a helpful option for anyone who finds the traditional test difficult for physical, cultural, or personal reasons. Self-collection isn’t right for everyone, so it’s worth asking your doctor whether it’s suitable for you.

What Do the Results Mean?

An HPV-negative result means your risk is low, and you won’t need another test for 5 years. An HPV-positive result doesn’t mean you have cervical cancer — HPV is common, and most infections clear on their own. It simply means your doctor will recommend either a follow-up test or a closer look at the cervical cells, so any changes can be monitored or treated early. Your results, and what they mean for you specifically, are best discussed directly with your doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The HPV vaccine protects against the most common high-risk strains, but not all of them, so regular screening is still recommended even if you’re vaccinated. Screening and vaccination work together, not as substitutes for each other.

Current guidelines recommend screening from age 25 for anyone who has ever been sexually active. If this doesn’t apply to you, it’s worth discussing your individual situation with your GP, since recommendations can vary person to person.

Cervical screening tests are typically Medicare-eligible for people who hold a Medicare card and meet the program’s eligibility criteria. Your out-of-pocket cost can depend on your appointment type, so it’s best to check this when you book.

Your doctor will talk you through the next step, which is usually either a repeat test in 12 months or a referral for further investigation, depending on the specific result. Most HPV infections clear naturally, and a positive result is a reason for monitoring, not alarm.

Book Your Cervical Screening Test in Perth

Cervical screening is one of the most effective checks available for protecting your long-term health, and it only takes a few minutes. At Athena Women’s Clinic’s cervical screening service in Bentley, Perth, our GP team — including Dr. Kavipriya Soma (MBBS | MD | FRACGP | DRANZCOG | DDU) — can talk you through what to expect, answer any questions, and make the appointment as comfortable as possible.

Call us on (08) 6116 1285 or visit our Contact Us page to book your appointment.

Source: Healthdirect Australia, “Cervical Screening Test,” reviewed August 2024.

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