What is changing?
From 1 July 2025, individuals aged 25 to 49 who attend cervical screening and test negative for high-risk HPV will now be invited for their next screen every five years, rather than every three years.
Screening intervals for those aged 50 to 64 remain unchanged at five-year intervals.
Why is this change happening?
Since 2019, the NHS Cervical Screening Programme has used HPV primary screening, which is a more accurate method of identifying those at risk of developing cervical cancer. Research shows that people who test negative for high-risk HPV have a very low risk of developing cervical cancer within the next ten years.
The change to five-year recall is based on strong evidence that this interval is safe for those who test HPV-negative, and helps reduce unnecessary screening without compromising safety.
Who will be affected?
- If you have a cervical screening appointment on or after 1 July 2025 and your result is HPV-negative, you will be recalled in five years, provided you meet all other clinical criteria.
- If you attend before 1 July 2025, the current three-year recall will still apply, regardless of the result.
When will three-year recall still apply?
You will continue to be recalled every three years if:
- You have had a positive HPV test in the past five years without a confirmed HPV-negative result since.
- You are under ongoing follow-up after a previous abnormal result or treatment (e.g., colposcopy).
- You have a history of cervical cancer, unless you have completed 10 years of follow-up and meet all clinical discharge criteria.
- There is no record of a previous HPV test (for example, your last test was before HPV screening was introduced).
How will I be invited?
From June 2025, invitations may be sent via the NHS App. If the invitation is not opened, a text message will follow. If no digital method is available, you will receive a letter by post.
It is important to keep your contact details up to date.
Common Questions
Will everyone aged 25–49 move to five-year screening?
Only those who are HPV-negative and meet all other criteria will move to five-year recall from 1 July 2025.
If I have never been screened or am overdue, does this apply to me?
You must first attend screening. If you test HPV-negative and meet the criteria, you will then move to five-year recall.
I have had the HPV vaccine – do I still need screening?
Yes. The vaccine does not protect against all high-risk HPV types. Regular screening is still essential.
What happens if I move to another GP practice?
Please ensure your medical records and contact details are up to date. Your recall schedule will follow you.
Summary Table
| Age Group | HPV Result | Recall Interval |
|---|---|---|
| 25–49 | HPV-negative (meets criteria) | 5 years |
| 25–49 | HPV-positive or other exclusions | 3 years |
| 50–64 | All (unchanged) | 5 years |
What should I do?
- Attend your cervical screening appointment when invited.
- Ensure Jacksdale Medical Centre has your up-to-date contact information.
- Download the NHS App to receive and manage your screening invitations.
- If you notice symptoms such as bleeding between periods, after sex, or unusual discharge, contact the surgery even if you are not due for screening.
If you have any questions or are unsure whether the new recall schedule applies to you, please contact the reception team or speak to one of our clinicians. We are here to help.