Cervical screening
What is cervical screening? Cervical screening (a smear test) checks the health of your cervix. What happens during cervical screening (a smear test)? During the screening appointment, a speculum is inserted through the vagina and small sample of cells will be taken from your cervix. The biopsy checks for the human papillomavirus (HPV) that can cause changes to the cells of the cervix.
What it is
UK guidance recommends cervical screening every 3 years from age 25-49 and every 5 years from 50-64. The test is now HPV-primary: a liquid sample is checked for high-risk HPV first; only HPV-positive samples are then examined for cell changes. Private screening at The Vesey follows the same evidence base, with faster appointments and consultant interpretation.
When this is relevant
- Routine screening - no symptoms required (most smears are taken from asymptomatic women).
- Missed or overdue NHS invitation - we can complete your routine screen privately.
- Post-coital, intermenstrual or new heavy bleeding - smear plus pelvic examination indicated.
- Persistent unusual discharge with or without odour.
- Recent abnormal smear or HPV result - we offer accelerated colposcopy follow-up.
How we investigate
Speculum examination, liquid-based cytology and high-risk HPV testing through an accredited NHS-tier laboratory. Pelvic examination as clinically indicated. Where the result is abnormal, same-week colposcopy is arranged with our consultant gynaecology team.
Options at The Vesey
- Routine smear interpretation with full written report to you and (with consent) your GP.
- HPV-positive normal cytology - structured 12-month repeat with clear written explanation of what the result means.
- Abnormal cytology - direct booking into private colposcopy clinic, typically within 7-10 days.
- Self-test option - for patients who decline a speculum exam, a self-collected vaginal swab can be offered (HPV testing only, not cytology).
- HPV vaccination - catch-up doses available for women up to age 45 where appropriate.
Frequently asked questions
At what age should I start cervical screening?
NHS cervical screening starts at age 25. Private screening at The Vesey is available from age 21 where there are clinical grounds. Routine screening continues every 3 years from 25–49, and every 5 years from 50–64.
What does an HPV-positive result mean?
A positive high-risk HPV result means you have an HPV strain that can (over years) cause cell changes in the cervix. It does not mean you have cancer. If cytology is also abnormal, you will be referred for colposcopy. If cells are normal, a repeat test in 12 months is recommended.
Can I have a smear test during my period?
It is best to avoid a smear test during your period as blood can sometimes affect the laboratory result. Aim for mid-cycle (about two weeks after the start of your last period) for the most reliable sample.
Does cervical screening detect all cervical cancers?
Cervical screening is a prevention programme, not a cancer detection test — it finds pre-cancerous changes before they become cancer. New symptoms such as post-coital bleeding or unusual discharge should always be reported to a doctor regardless of when you last had a smear.
Private consultation at The Vesey
From £90 (Private GP) · Specialist from £260 · No GP referral required · Open 7 days 8am–8pm
Book an appointment
When to book
Book if you are overdue, want a quicker appointment than the NHS can offer, have had an abnormal result you want a second opinion on, or want to discuss HPV vaccination as an adjunct.
Cost and pathway
Private cervical screening £180 (consultation, smear, HPV co-testing and written report). HPV-only testing from £140. Colposcopy follow-up (if needed) £390.
- Open 7 days including Sundays — 8am to 8pm, no weekend surcharge
- No GP referral required — book directly with our gynaecology team
- Sutton Coldfield location — serving Birmingham, Walsall, Tamworth, Lichfield and the West Midlands
- CQC-regulated — rated 4.87/5 on Doctify from 700+ verified reviews
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Sutton Coldfield · Birmingham · Walsall · Tamworth · Lichfield · West Midlands · Open 7 days 8am–8pm
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