How often should I take a cervical test?
Women between 25 and 29 years is recommended to take a cervical test every 3 years.
The cervical tests from these women are assessed under a microscope for abnormal cell changes. If the test result is normal, we recommend a new test in 3 years.
Even if you have a normal test result for the last 3 years, it is still important to contact your doctor in case of symptoms such as irregular bleeding, bleeding after sexual intercourse, abnormal discharge or pain in the lower abdomen. There may be plural reasons for such symptoms, but it is important to examine.
Women between 30 and 69 years is recommended to take a cervical test every 5 years.
The cervical tests from these women are analyzed for HPV virus. If HPV is not detected, we recommend a new test in 5 years.
HPV test is more sensitive than assessment under a microscope. It usually takes 10-20 years to develop cervical cancer from an HPV infection, and due to this aspect it is safe to wait 5 years until your next HPV test.
Even if HPV was not detected within the last 5 years, it is still important to contact your doctor in case of symptoms such as irregular bleeding, bleeding after sexual intercourse, unnormal discharge or pain in the lower abdomen. There may be plural reasons for such symptoms, but it is important to examine.
Cervical Screen Norway will send you a reminder letter when it is time for your next cervical test.
From 1st of July 2023, the HPV test will be used for everyone in the Cervical Screening Programme.