What does HPV self-testing mean for cervical screening in England? – Cancer Research UK

What is HPV self-testing?  

HPV self-testing is a way for people to do their own HPV test at home. This means they can collect the sample themselves rather than having a sample taken by a doctor or nurse. The sample can then be sent off for free in the post, to be checked for high-risk HPV. If high-risk HPV is present in someone’s sample, they will be invited to have an in-person screening test with a healthcare professional to check for abnormal cells. 

Why is HPV self-testing being introduced? 

The aim of self-testing is to help more people take part in cervical screening in a way that works for them.  

There are many reasons why some people don’t take part in cervical screening. They may be embarrassed about having the test, unable to get to their GP, or worried that it could be painful. While there are many ways to make cervical screening more comfortable, the option to do an HPV test at home could make a big difference for people who still find it challenging to attend. In fact, research we helped fund showed that offering HPV self-testing to people who are overdue for screening could help over 400,000 more people in England take part each year. 

HPV self-testing could also play an important role in reducing health inequalities overcoming barriers that have a greater impact on some groups than others. This can include underserved groups such as those from more deprived backgrounds, ethnic minority groups, LGBTQI+ people, people with learning disabilities, and people who have experienced sexual violence.

How will HPV self‑testing work?

People who are eligible to take part in HPV self-testing will be invited through the NHS app, in a text message, in an email or a letter in the post. The invite will explain how to order a free HPV self-testing kit, which will then be sent to your home.

The kit comes with instructions explaining what to do. There is also a video to help. The kit includes a swab, which is like a long cotton bud. This allows people to take a sample of cells from the vagina.

Once the sample has been taken it can be sent off to the NHS for free in a discreet prepaid envelope.

The sample is then checked for high‑risk HPV, the virus that causes nearly all cervical cancers.

If the sample does not show high–risk HPV, no further tests are needed. You’ll be invited for routine cervical screening again in 5 years if you are still within the eligible age range.

If high–risk HPV is found, this does not mean you have cervical cancer. You will be invited to have a regular cervical screening test with a nurse or doctor. This can be done at your GP practice, sexual health clinic or at a specialist clinic. This follow up test is needed because, unlike a sample taken during cervical screening, an HPV self-test cannot be used to check for abnormal cells on the cervix.