Cervical screening is not a test for diagnosing cancer but a way of detecting abnormalities which, if left untreated, could lead to cervical cancer.

Early detection and treatment can prevent around 75 per cent of cervical cancers developing in women who attend regularly when invited. All women registered with a GP should receive their first invitation at 25 and then every three years until they are 49. Women between 50 and 64 will be invited every five years.

It's really important if you receive an invitation for cervical cancer screening that you attend an appointment. Put simply, the screening could save your life.

Further information on cervical screening can be found at the NHS cancer screening programmes’ website www.cancerscreening.nhs.uk

Information on cervical screening is available in alternative formats and languages from the national screening website.

Cervical screening information video