All women between the ages of 25 and 64 are eligible for a free cervical screening test every three to five years. In the light of evidence published in 2003 the NHS Cervical Screening Programme now offers screening at different intervals depending on age.
The new intervals are:
| Age group (years) | Frequency of screening |
| 25 | First invitation |
| 25 – 49 | 3 yearly |
| 50 – 64 | 5 yearly |
| 65+ | Patients will only be screened if they have not had a smear since the age of 50 or have had recent abnormal tests |
You will receive an invitation by computer-typed letter. However, you need not wait for the invitation before making your appointment. We prefer to do these tests within the practice and either the practice nurse, nurse practitioner or a doctor can carry them out.
Please inform the receptionist, when making your appointment, that you will be having a smear test.