Cervical Screening Programme Changes

From the 1st July 2025, younger women (aged 25 to 49) who test negative for HPV, meaning they are at very low risk of cervical cancer over the next 10 years, will safely be invited at 5-year intervals rather than 3, in line with major clinical evidence.

Will Everyone move on to this new 5 Yearly Screening Pathtway automatically?

No, Next test due dates will not be changed retrospectively, you will be invited at the next interval you were advised at at the time of your last test. Only those who attend cervical screening on or after the 1st July and meet the clinical criteria will have their next test due at 5 years.

So will everyone aged 25-49 move to a 5 year screening if they test negative after the 1st July?

No, not everyone. If your test result is negative but your last test (taken within the last 5 years) showed an HPV positive result, you will still be invited you will still be invited for screening in 3 years time so that your HPV status can continue to be monitored. If you test negative for HPV at that next test, you will then move to 5 year screening.

For further information please visit; NHS England » NHS rolls out more personalised cervical screening for millions