Cervical Cancer
Almost all cervical cancer is caused by HPV, a very common virus. Between the free vaccine and 5-yearly screening, Australia is on track to be one of the first countries to eliminate it.
The cervical screening test now comes in a take-it-yourself version. No stirrups. No small talk about the weather.
See your GP soon for bleeding after sex, between periods or after menopause, unusual discharge, or pain during sex. These are usually not cancer, but they need checking, even if your last screening test was normal.
The numbers
- About 950 new cases and 250 deaths a year in Australia (2025 estimates)
- About 1 in 190 women and people with a cervix are diagnosed by age 85
- 77% are alive 5 years after diagnosis, and far more when found early
- Most cases are in people who have never been screened or are overdue
Screening: the cervical screening test
- Every 5 years from 25 to 74 if you’ve ever been sexually active, whatever your sexual history or gender
- It tests for HPV, which causes almost all cervical cancers, not for cancer itself
- You can choose self-collection: a quick swab from the vagina, done privately in the clinic. It’s as accurate as a doctor-collected test
- Vaccinated? Still screen. The vaccine doesn’t cover every cancer-causing HPV type
- A positive HPV result usually means a follow-up test, not cancer
The HPV vaccine
- Free at school for 12 and 13 year olds: one dose is enough
- Free catch-up for people up to 25 who missed it
- It also prevents most anal and throat cancers and genital warts
HPV is so common that most sexually active people have it at some point. Catching it isn’t a moral failing. Skipping the screen is just a missed opportunity.
Tests and treatment
- Abnormal results lead to a colposcopy: a magnified look at the cervix, sometimes with a small biopsy
- Pre-cancer changes are removed with a quick procedure, usually under local anaesthetic
- Early cancer: surgery, sometimes keeping fertility
- Larger cancers: radiotherapy with chemotherapy
Save your money
Popular, heavily marketed or often asked about, but the evidence is weak or says no.
- Skipping screening after menopauseKeep going until 74. Bleeding after menopause always needs checking.
- Supplements to ‘clear HPV’No good evidence. Your immune system usually clears HPV by itself within two years.
Common questions
How often do I need a cervical screening test?
Every 5 years from 25 to 74 if your HPV test is negative. You may need tests more often after an abnormal result.
Can I do my own cervical screening test?
Yes. Everyone eligible can choose self-collection: a simple swab from the vagina, done privately. It’s as accurate as a clinician-collected sample for HPV.
Do I still need screening if I had the HPV vaccine?
Yes. The vaccine prevents most but not all cancer-causing HPV types, so keep screening every 5 years.
Helpful resources
- Cancer Council 13 11 20Information and support line for anyone affected by cancer. Free.
- National Cervical Screening ProgramWho, when and how. Free.
- National Cancer Screening Register 1800 627 701Check when you’re due.
Evidence and more information
- Cancer Australia: Cervical cancer statistics
- National Cervical Screening Program (health.gov.au)
- Cancer Council: Cervical screening
maladywise.com/cervical-cancer/