Smear Tests in the UK – How Often Should You Have One & What Women Need to Know in 2025

Smear testing (cervical screening) is one of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer. It detects abnormal cells and high-risk HPV long before cancer develops. In the UK, the NHS has clear guidelines on when women should be screened, but many people still have questions – especially those who want private testing, faster appointments, or additional blood panels that assess general women’s health.

At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre in central London, many women ask us about smear test timing, HPV risks, cervical cancer prevention, and whether private blood testing can support their overall reproductive health. This guide answers the most searched questions for 2025 and explains how women can keep themselves protected.

How Often Are Smear Tests Done in the UK?

In the UK, cervical screening is offered every 3 years for women aged 25–49, and every 5 years for women aged 50–64.

Common questions:

• Under 25? Screening is not routinely offered unless symptoms are present.
• Over 65? Only offered if you’ve had abnormal results before.
• Missed one? You can request it anytime.

Some women choose private smear testing between NHS intervals for reassurance, faster access, or peace of mind before pregnancy.

How Often SHOULD You Have a Smear Test?

Most women should follow NHS guidance.
But additional testing may be needed if you:

• have had HPV previously
• have a history of abnormal smear results
• have symptoms (bleeding after sex, pelvic pain, discharge)
• are immunosuppressed
• have multiple partners
• want reassurance between routine screening intervals

A private smear test provides an option for women who want more frequent monitoring.

What Age Can You Get a Smear Test in the UK?

• Routine screening starts at 25.
• Private clinics may offer smears to younger women if clinically appropriate (e.g., post-coital bleeding, long-term symptoms, history of HPV exposure).

Cervical Cancer Prevention Week 2025 – Why Awareness Matters

Cervical cancer is highly preventable through:

• HPV vaccination
• regular smear tests
• early detection of abnormal cells
• lifestyle awareness (smoking increases risk)

During Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, clinics across the UK highlight the importance of screening and follow-up investigations. Many women also choose to take broader women’s health blood tests, which provide a more complete picture of hormonal, metabolic and nutritional wellbeing.

Do Smear Tests Detect All Issues?

No. A smear test screens for:

• abnormal cervical cells
• high-risk HPV strains

It does not assess:

• fertility
• hormones
• ovarian function
• infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea or mycoplasma
• vitamin deficiencies
• iron deficiency
• thyroid disorders

This is where MDC’s Women’s Health blood profiles come in as a strong complement.

Women’s Health Tests Offered at MDC

MDC provides private blood tests that complement cervical screening:

Smear Test vs Women’s Health Blood Tests (MDC)

This table helps women understand how smear testing fits into a broader approach to female health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Take-Home Message

Smear tests save lives – but they are only one part of women’s health.
Whether you use NHS or private screening, pairing cervical screening with MDC’s Women’s Health Blood Profiles gives you a complete, modern approach to reproductive and metabolic wellbeing.

Quick Links

• Women’s Health Tests
• Female Fertility Hormone Panel
• HIV 4th Generation Test
• Advanced Sexual Health Panel
• Sexual Health Tests
• Syphilis Test
• Hepatitis B & C Tests
• Urine Analysis

Read More

• NHS – Cervical Screening
• Cancer Research UK – Cervical Cancer Prevention
• British Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (BSCCP)