What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is a cancer that’s found anywhere in the cervix. Two women die from cervical cancer every day, yet it is one of the most preventable cancers. Around 2,700 women in England are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year and it is the second most common cancer amongst women under 35.
The cervix is the opening between the vagina and the womb (uterus). It’s part of the reproductive system and is sometimes called the neck of the womb. Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by an infection from certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV).
You can reduce your risk by attending cervical screening, which aims to find and treat changes to cells before they turn into cancer. Cervical cancer usually develops very slowly. How serious it is depends on how big it is, if it has spread, and your general health.
What is cervical screening?
Cervical screening, which used to be called a smear test, is a test to check the health of the cervix and help prevent cervical cancer. All women aged 25 to 64 are invited for cervical screening every 5 years. Everyone with a cervix should be offered screening.
What happens at my appointment?
Cervical screening involves taking a small sample of cells from your cervix for testing. It’s usually done by a female nurse or doctor, who will explain the test and answer any questions you have before they start.
The NHS offers guidance as to what you should expect in your screening appointment.
Page last reviewed: 28 January 2026