Cervical Screening in Point Cook
Regular cervical cancer screening reduces illness and death from cervical cancer. The Cervical Screening Test looks for the human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes most cervical cancers, so an infection can be followed up before it causes harm.
Our GPs and nurses offer cervical screening in Point Cook, and you can choose how your sample is collected.
Who should have cervical cancer screening
Under the National Cervical Screening Program, women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 74 who have ever been sexually active are invited to screen every five years. That applies whether or not you have had the HPV vaccine, and regardless of your sexual orientation or gender identity.
The five-yearly HPV test replaced the two-yearly Pap smear. If your last test was a Pap smear, ask when you are due.
Two ways to collect your sample
Everyone eligible can now choose:
- Self-collection: you take a vaginal swab yourself, in private at the clinic, after your GP orders the test. The swab is rotated inside the vagina for 10 to 30 seconds.
- Clinician collection: a doctor or nurse uses a speculum to take a sample from the cervix.
Both are HPV tests. Self-collection is not suitable if you have symptoms such as unusual bleeding, pain or discharge; in that case your GP will examine you.
Before your appointment
- Tell reception when booking if you have a preference about who does the test
- Wear clothing that is easy to remove from the waist down
- Mention any symptoms, pregnancy or previous abnormal results when you see the GP
- Ask for an interpreter if you need one
- Check the practice information page for parking and booking details
Understanding your results
According to healthdirect, results generally mean one of these:
- HPV not found: return to screening in five years
- Sample unsatisfactory: repeat the test in 6 to 12 weeks
- HPV found: a repeat test in 12 months, as the body often clears the infection by itself
- Refer to a specialist: a certain type of HPV or abnormal cells were found, and a colposcopy is needed
Results are usually sent by text, and urgent ones by phone. Reception cannot give results over the phone, so book a visit if you want to talk them through. The clinic also sends SMS reminders when screening is due.
Symptoms should not wait for screening
Screening is for people without symptoms. See a GP promptly, even if your last test was normal, if you notice bleeding between periods, after sex or after menopause, pain during sex, or an unusual discharge. Related care is covered on our gynaecology page.
Fees for cervical screening in Point Cook
The test attracts a Medicare rebate. Whether the consultation is bulk billed depends on you: pensioners over 65 and DVA card holders are bulk billed with all our doctors. For other patients the appointment may have an out-of-pocket fee, as each practitioner sets their own fees. The fees page lists current consultation fees.
Common questions
Does cervical screening hurt?
It can feel uncomfortable for a moment. Tell the doctor or nurse if it hurts so they can stop or adjust. If you have no symptoms, self-collection is another option.
I have had the HPV vaccine. Do I still need screening?
Yes. The vaccine does not protect against every HPV type that causes cancer, so vaccinated people still need regular screening.
Do I need screening after a hysterectomy?
It depends on whether your cervix was removed and why the surgery was done. Bring any surgical letters and your GP will check whether you still need tests.
Can I book my test online?
Yes, you can book online or call reception. Choose a standard GP appointment and mention cervical screening when booking.