Understanding your screening results

You have your cervical screening result and you're reading this. First, a deep breath. Then, what each possible result actually means.

This article describes the result categories used in HPV-first cervical screening, the system Australia adopted in December 2017.

Result 1: HPV not found

The most common result. The lab found no high-risk HPV in your sample.

What it means: Your risk of cervical cancer in the next few years is very low. The screening test has done its job.

Next step: Your next screening invitation will arrive in 5 years (Australia's standard interval for ages 25 to 74).

The NHS notes plainly:

Result 2: Inadequate or unclear result

The lab couldn't get a clear reading from your sample. This is not a sign that anything is wrong.

What it means: The result was technically unclear, often because the sample didn't contain enough cells or there was an issue at the lab.

Next step: A repeat test, usually in around 3 months.

The NHS reassures:

Result 3: HPV found, no abnormal cell changes

The lab found high-risk HPV in your sample, but your cervical cells look normal.

What it means: You have an HPV infection that has not (yet) caused any cell changes. Most HPV infections clear on their own within 2 years (CDC), so the most likely outcome is that this resolves without further intervention.

Next step: Your next screening will be earlier than 5 years, usually 1 year, to monitor whether the HPV clears. If it does, you return to the standard schedule. If HPV is still present at the follow-up screening, you'll be invited again. If HPV remains after 2 years total, you'll be referred for colposcopy (a closer look at the cervix).

Result 4: HPV found, with abnormal cell changes

The lab found high-risk HPV and noticed abnormal cells in your sample.

What it means: It's worth taking a closer look. Abnormal cells are not cancer. They are changes that, if left for many years, could potentially develop into cancer. Detecting them at this stage is exactly what the screening program is designed to do.

Next step: Referral for colposcopy, a hospital-based examination where a doctor uses a magnifying device to look at your cervix and may take a small biopsy if needed.

The NHS offers reassurance worth quoting in full:

Important: HPV detected does not mean cancer

A common reaction to 'HPV detected' is fear and self-blame. Both are misplaced.

• HPV detected does not equal cancer. It means the screening worked exactly as designed: it caught the virus during the long window when something can be done about it.
• HPV detected does not equal infidelity. HPV can persist undetected for many years. A new positive result does not tell you anything about a current partner.
• HPV detected is common. Most sexually active adults will have HPV at some point in their lives.

If your result is 'HPV detected', what you're seeing is the system doing its job.

How long until I hear back?

In Australia, results typically arrive within a few weeks, by SMS or letter. If you haven't heard after a few weeks, contact your GP or call the National Cancer Screening Register on 1800 627 701.

What to do now

• HPV not found? Mark your calendar for 5 years. Your next invitation will come automatically.
• Inadequate or unclear? Book a repeat test for around 3 months from now.
• HPV found, normal cells? Note your follow-up date. You don't need to do anything else right now.
• HPV found, abnormal cells? Wait for your colposcopy appointment.

If anything in your result confuses you, your GP can walk you through it. Self-collection results can also be discussed with your healthcare provider.