No, they are not the same. The Cervical Screening Test replaced the Pap smear in Australia in December 2017. While both aim to help protect against cervical cancer, they work differently.
A Pap smear looked for abnormal cervical cells. The current Cervical Screening Test looks for human papillomavirus, or HPV. Persistent infection with certain high-risk HPV types causes almost all cervical cancers. Understanding the difference can help you feel more confident about what to expect before booking.
Key Takeaways
- The Cervical Screening Test replaced, rather than renamed, the Pap smear.
- It checks for HPV first, rather than looking directly for abnormal cells.
- Screening is recommended every five years for eligible people with a low-risk result.
- It is available to women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 74 who have ever had sexual contact.
- All eligible participants can choose self-collection or clinician collection.
Is the Cervical Screening Test the Same as a Pap Smear?
They serve the same broad preventive purpose, but they are different tests. A Pap smear examines cervical cells directly under a microscope to look for abnormal changes. The National Cervical Screening Program now uses HPV testing, which looks for the virus that can cause those cell changes to develop in the first place.
- The Pap smear looked for abnormal cells.
- The Cervical Screening Test looks first for HPV, the virus that causes almost all cervical cancers.
- If HPV is detected, the next step depends on the HPV type, the available sample and any cell changes identified. Your healthcare provider may recommend repeat testing, an additional clinician-collected sample or referral for colposcopy.
Testing for HPV helps identify people who may be at risk of developing cervical cell changes, which supports the five-year screening interval after a low-risk result.
Why Did Australia Replace Pap Smears?
Australia replaced two-yearly Pap tests with five-yearly HPV-based screening in December 2017. HPV testing can identify high-risk HPV before abnormal cervical cell changes develop, allowing eligible people with a low-risk result to screen every five years.
The program now covers people aged 25–74, and follow-up guidance was updated again in April 2025.
Who Should Have a Cervical Screening Test?
Screening is recommended for women and people with a cervix aged 25–74 who have ever had sexual contact, including those who received the HPV vaccine.
People aged 75+, anyone who has had a hysterectomy, or those with symptoms should ask a GP about their individual screening needs.
How Often Do You Need Cervical Screening?
For most eligible people, cervical screening is recommended every five years after a low-risk result.
Some people may need earlier follow-up depending on their previous results, screening history, or individual clinical circumstances. If a clinician has recommended a shorter interval for you, that advice applies to your situation and overrides the general five-year guideline.
What Happens During a Cervical Screening Test?
There are two collection options, both of which check for HPV.
Healthcare Provider Collection
A clinician performs the test in a private setting with your consent. With your consent, the clinician inserts a speculum to view the cervix and collect a small sample. The test may feel uncomfortable, and you can ask to pause or stop at any time.
Self-Collection
Self-collection lets you use a small swab to collect a vaginal sample in private. The sample is sent to a laboratory for HPV testing, and the swab does not need to reach the cervix.
Since July 2022, all eligible routine screening participants can choose self-collection. A clinician-collected sample may still be recommended if symptoms are present, HPV is detected, or further cervical assessment is needed.
Can Everyone Choose Self-Collection?
Most eligible routine screening participants can choose self-collection. Your healthcare provider can explain which option suits your circumstances, especially if you have symptoms or need follow-up assessment.
Valentine Healthcare can discuss both self-collection and clinician collection through its women’s health services.
What Does Cervical Screening Test Results Mean?
A positive HPV result does not mean you have cervical cancer. It means HPV was detected, and follow-up depends on the specific type found.
- HPV not detected: return for routine screening in five years
- Repeat screening advised: another test may be recommended after a set interval
- Further assessment advised: a referral or colposcopy may be recommended to assess any cell changes
Your GP or screening provider will explain your result and what, if anything, needs to happen next. Result pathways were updated in April 2025 as part of the revised National Cervical Screening Program Clinical Guidelines.
When Should You Speak With a GP Rather Than Wait for Routine Screening?
Cervical screening is designed for people without symptoms. If you notice any of the following, please see a GP rather than waiting for your next routine screen:
- unusual vaginal bleeding, including between periods or after menopause
- bleeding after sex
- pain during sex
- unusual vaginal discharge
- ongoing pelvic symptoms that do not have a clear explanation
Symptoms need individual assessment, not routine screening alone. You can also use the appointment to discuss other relevant women’s health concerns with your GP.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
A few simple steps can make your appointment easier:
- Ask when booking whether self-collection is available at the clinic
- request a female clinician if that would make you more comfortable
- Let reception know about any accessibility needs or if you would like an interpreter
- Bring a support person if that helps you feel at ease
- Check consultation fees and Medicare rebates before attending, as Valentine Healthcare is a mixed billing practice
- Mention any previous abnormal results or cervical procedures at the start of your appointment
Conclusion
The Cervical Screening Test is not simply a new name for a Pap smear. It is a different test that checks for HPV and is generally performed every five years. All eligible participants can discuss clinician collection or self-collection with their GP.
If you are due, overdue, have symptoms, or are simply unsure what applies to your situation, speaking with a GP is a sensible next step.
Patients in Valentine, NSW, who are due, overdue, or unsure about cervical screening can contact Valentine Healthcare to discuss eligibility, appointment options, and any fees that may apply.
FAQs
Is a Cervical Screening Test the same as a Pap smear?
No. The Pap smear checks for abnormal cells, while the Cervical Screening Test checks for HPV first.
How often do I need a Cervical Screening Test?
Most eligible people need screening every five years after a low-risk result. Some may need earlier follow-up.
Can I collect my own sample?
Yes. Eligible patients can choose self-collection using a small vaginal swab. A clinician-collected sample may still be needed in some cases.
Do I still need screening after the HPV vaccine?
Yes. The vaccine does not protect against every high-risk HPV type, so regular screening is still recommended.
What happens if HPV is found?
An HPV-positive result does not mean cancer. Follow-up may include repeat testing, another sample, or further assessment.