Health journalWomen's health
Cervical screening in Rutherford: your five-yearly guide
Who needs a Cervical Screening Test, how often, what self-collection means, and how to book cervical screening at Rutherford Doctors.
Cervical screening is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself against cervical cancer. If you live in Rutherford, Aberglasslyn, Telarah and the wider Maitland area, you can have your Cervical Screening Test at Rutherford Doctors, a Medicare Bulk Billing Practice on Hillview Street. This guide explains how the test works, who it is for, and the option to collect your own sample.
What is the Cervical Screening Test?
The Cervical Screening Test replaced the Pap smear in December 2017. Rather than looking for cell changes first, it tests for human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that causes most cervical cancers. Because HPV infection usually happens years before any cell changes, testing for HPV can identify people at higher risk earlier.
Who needs cervical screening?
Cervical screening is recommended every five years for women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 74 who have ever been sexually active. This includes people who have had the HPV vaccine, people in same-sex relationships, and people who have been through menopause.
Your two options: clinician-collected or self-collected
Since July 2022, everyone eligible for cervical screening can choose to collect their own sample. Self-collection uses a simple swab, which you take yourself in a private space at the clinic. Both self-collected and clinician-collected samples are accurate ways to test for HPV.
- Clinician-collected: your GP or nurse uses a speculum to collect a sample from the cervix
- Self-collected: you use a swab to collect a sample from the vagina, privately, with instructions from your GP
If HPV is found on a self-collected sample, you may need to return for a clinician-collected sample so the cells can be checked.
Understanding your results
Most results show no HPV, and you will be due again in five years. If HPV is found, your GP will explain what it means and the next steps, which may include a repeat test or a referral for further examination.
When is my next test due?
The National Cancer Screening Register sends reminders when you are due. You can also ask our reception team, or your GP can check at your appointment.
If you have symptoms
Screening is for people without symptoms. If you notice unusual vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding between periods, after sex or after menopause, unusual discharge or ongoing pain, book an appointment with your GP rather than waiting for your next screening test.
Book cervical screening in Rutherford
Our female GPs, including Dr Zahraa Alassaf, Dr Comfort Ogidi and Dr Sharon Liu, provide women's health care at Rutherford Doctors. Book online through HotDoc and choose your GP, or call reception on (02) 4061 7981.
Frequently asked questions
Does cervical screening hurt?
Clinician-collected screening can be a little uncomfortable but should not be painful. Let your GP know if you feel uncomfortable at any time. Self-collection is another option.
I have had the HPV vaccine. Do I still need screening?
Yes. The vaccine does not protect against all cancer-causing types of HPV, so regular screening is still recommended.
Can I see a female GP for cervical screening?
Yes. Choose a female GP when you book online through HotDoc, or ask reception.
Sources: National Cervical Screening Program; Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing; Cancer Council Australia.
This article is general health information written by the Rutherford Doctors team. It has not been written or reviewed by our GPs and is not a substitute for advice about your own health. Please book an appointment to discuss your situation. In an emergency, call 000.
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