Two cervical screening options
There are 2 options for how you have your screening sample taken.
Vaginal swab
With a vaginal swab, you can either self-test, or a health professional can help.
Doing a vaginal swab (self-test) (internal link)
Cervical sample
A cervical sample (previously known as a smear test) is taken by a health professional. (internal link)
Choosing the right test for you
Your healthcare provider can help you find out which type of test is better for you.
The vaginal swab is quick and easy to do. But this may not be suitable for everyone. Some people may be recommended to have a cervical cell sample taken (previously known as a smear test) depending on their screening history.
Some people may also prefer to have their sample taken as a cervical sample. A cervical sample also tests for HPV.
If you do a vaginal swab test and HPV is found, you will either be recommended to return to have a cervical sample taken as a follow-up test, or referred directly to colposcopy. This will depend on the type of HPV detected.
Your test, your choice: New Zealand Sign Language
Find a screening provider
You can choose who does your screening:
- your usual doctor or practice nurse
- Māori, Pacific or women’s community health centres
- outreach services, like marae and mobile units
- Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa
- sexual health services.
Some healthcare providers may offer a take-home option. Talk to them if you are interested in this.
You can also find screening providers in your area using the Healthpoint directory.
Healthpoint website (external link)
The National Screening Unit can also help you find someone to take your screen: freephone 0800 729 729
Advice for screening
If you have your period
If you have your period, you can still have a screening test as long as the bleeding is not too heavy. This could affect the test result.
During pregnancy
It is safe to have a screening test when you are pregnant, but it is best to discuss this with your healthcare provider.
After pregnancy
After the birth of your pēpi (baby), you should wait 6 weeks to have your screening test. This allows time for the changes from pregnancy to settle.
If you need extra support
You may take a support person with you to your appointment. When booking, let your healthcare provider know if you:
- have a disability that means you need extra support
- need an interpreter.
After a cervical screening test
Your HPV result will usually come back within 1 to 2 weeks. Talk to your healthcare provider about how you want to be contacted.
If HPV is found, depending on which test you have and the type of HPV found, you may be recommended to have a cervical cell sample taken or you may be referred for colposcopy for treatment if needed.
Find more information about the next steps.