Self-collection options increase choice for cervical cancer screening

From 1 July 2022 all women and people with a cervix aged 25-74 will have two options for having a Cervical Screening Test.

You can now choose to screen by: 

• collecting your own sample (this is also called self-collection), or
• having a healthcare provider collect your sample.

Both screening options are accurate, safe and effective.

Greater choice in testing options is expected to increase participation in cervical screening and support better outcomes in under-screened populations.

Expanded options for self-collection will remove some cultural and personal barriers that may discourage some women from screening, especially Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, culturally and linguistically diverse communities and people who have experienced sexual violence.

If you are interested in self-collection, talk to your healthcare provider about which option is best for you.

It is recommended that women and people with a cervix aged 25-74 years have a cervical screening test every five years. Regular cervical screening prevents almost all cervical cancers. Most people who develop cervical cancer have either never screened or do not screen regularly.

For more information, visit healthywa.wa.gov.au/cervicalscreening.