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Home > Cervical screening / HPV testing
Cervical screening helps prevent cervical cancer by finding high-risk HPV (human papillomavirus) and early changes to the cells of the cervix.
In New Zealand, HPV testing is now the main cervical screening test. For most eligible people aged 25–69, screening is recommended every five years.
HPV is a very common virus, usually passed on through sexual contact. Most people will have HPV at some stage, and the body usually clears the infection naturally.
In some people, high-risk HPV can remain in the body and cause changes to the cells of the cervix. These changes usually happen slowly, which is why regular screening is important.
The HPV test checks for high-risk types of HPV that can cause cervical cancer.
For most people, the sample can be collected using a self-swab. A self-swab is simple and does not usually require a speculum examination. A healthcare professional can also collect the sample if preferred or recommended.
Having HPV does not mean you have cervical cancer.
If HPV is detected, you may need further testing or follow-up. Your nurse or doctor will explain your result and what happens next.
Cervical screening is recommended if you:
Screening is recommended even if you:
If you have had a hysterectomy, please speak with your nurse or doctor to check whether you still need screening.
Some people may need screening more often or a different type of test depending on their previous results or medical history.
For most people without symptoms, an HPV self-swab is the recommended screening option.
A clinician-collected sample or examination may be recommended if you have had abnormal screening results in the past, need follow-up, or have other medical reasons for a different test.
If you have symptoms such as:
Please tell your nurse or doctor. These symptoms need to be assessed separately from routine cervical screening.
At Ilam Medical Centre, cervical screening is available with our trained nurses and female doctors. We aim to make your screening experience as comfortable and supportive as possible.
If you have questions or concerns, please contact us and ask to speak with one of our nurses. We can also provide information about Māori and Pacific health providers.
From 1 March 2027, cervical screening will be free for all eligible women aged 25–69 under the Government’s planned funding changes.
Until 1 March 2027, some people may already be eligible for free cervical screening, including:
Funding eligibility may depend on your residency or visa status.
If you are due or overdue for cervical screening, please don’t wait until March 2027. Screening is important because it can detect HPV and early cell changes before they develop into cervical cancer.
If cost is a concern, contact us to discuss whether you are currently eligible for funded screening or whether other options are available.
Our nurses will send you reminders when your screening is due. Please let us know if you have had screening elsewhere so we can keep your records up to date.
Almost all cervical cancers are caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of HPV.
Most HPV infections clear naturally. However, if a high-risk HPV infection remains, it can cause changes to the cells of the cervix. These changes can take many years to develop and may eventually become cancerous.
Regular cervical screening can find HPV or early cell changes before cancer develops. This makes cervical cancer one of the most preventable cancers.
HPV infection does not mean you have cancer.
The HPV vaccine provides excellent protection against the HPV types that cause most cervical cancers and other HPV-related cancers.
Vaccination is an important part of preventing cervical cancer, but it does not protect against every high-risk type of HPV.
Even if you have had the HPV vaccine, you should still have regular cervical screening when you become eligible.
Talk to one of our nurses about HPV vaccination, including eligibility and the recommended vaccination schedule.
Yes, screening can usually be done during your period. However, heavy bleeding may affect the sample. If you are bleeding heavily, please mention this when booking your appointment.
Cervical screening may be appropriate during pregnancy in some circumstances. Please discuss this with your nurse, doctor or maternity care provider.
It is generally recommended to wait around six weeks after giving birth before having cervical screening. Your healthcare provider can advise you based on your individual circumstances.
Are you considering a smear? We have trained nurses and female doctors who can do HPV and cervical screening test for you.
Please call reception to book an appointment with the nurse or doctor. For more information, please call to speak with a nurse, or have a chat with your GP at your next appointment.
You may take a support person with you to your cervical screening appointment. When booking, let reception know if you:
For more information about cervical screening and HPV testing in New Zealand, visit
What does the test involve? Cervical Screening information National Screening programme website
