Cervical Screening Saves Lives
Getting the correct information is vital.
Here are our myth busters about HPV and Cervical Screening.
Cervical Screening Myths
I don’t have any symptoms of Cervical Cancer.
I don’t need to get screened.
Myth
Screening is for people who are well. It’s aims to prevent serious illnesses like cervical cancer.
If you have symptoms such as unusual bleeding, discharge, or pain during sex, in the pelvis, lower back, or hips, see a GP promptly – don’t wait for your next screening.
Cervical Screening is a test for Cancer.
Myth
It’s a test to prevent cancer.
The test looks for signs of HPV that could become cancer if not treated. A positive HPV test does not mean you have cancer.
Cervical Screening is very painful.
Myth
It may feel strange or uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t be painful.
You can talk to the Doctor or Nurse before, during and after your appointment about ways to make your experience more comfortable.
Cervical Screening is only for people who have had sex.
Myth
Yes, most cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV, which is often transmitted through sexual contact, but it is possible to get HPV non-sexually.
Regular screening is the best way to prevent cervical cancer.
Cervical Screening is only for heterosexual women.
Myth
Cervical Screening is for anyone who has a cervix.
If you are between 26 and 64 and have a cervix, you should get screened regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
Transgender men don’t need cervical screenings.
Myth
If you have a cervix, you should get screened.
Trans men who are registered with their GP as male may not be automatically invited to screenings, so speak to your practice to make an appointment.
Cervical Screening takes away your virginity.
Myth
Virginity is about sexual or intimate experiences, while cervical screening is a health check.
Some people worry a smear test might “break” their hymen, but the hymen isn’t a reliable sign of sexual activity.
People in my family or community will know I’ve had a cervical screening.
Myth
Like all healthcare, cervical screening is confidential, and your appointments and records are private.
If you are worried about a letter going to your house, please speak to your practice team, who can help.
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Myths about Human papillomavirus (HPV)
I’ve had the HPV vaccine.
I can’t get cervical cancer.
Myth
The HPV vaccine greatly reduces the risk of cervical cancer, but low risk doesn’t mean no risk at all.
I don’t have any symptoms of HPV.
I don’t need to get screened.
Myth
HPV is a group of very common infections. Most people will get some sort of HPV in their life, and it often has no symptoms.
Screening is for people who are fit and well. It’s about finding strains of HPV that could become cancer if left untreated.
I’m not sexually active.
I can’t get HPV or Cervical Cancer
Myth
Your risk may be lower, but low risk doesn’t mean no risk.
It’s possible to get HPV from shared surfaces in public places (think swimming pools or gym changing rooms).
Regular screening is the only way to know for sure.
I don’t have sex with men.
I can’t get HPV.
Myth
HPV can pass through skin-to-skin contact between people of any gender.
It was once thought to only happen through heterosexual activity, but this is not true.
I’ve only had one sexual partner.
I can’t get HPV.
Myth
Someone can have HPV for years without knowing, and with no visible symptoms.
HPV can also transfer non-sexually through touching shared surfaces.
Regular screening is the only way to know for sure.
I’m in a long-term relationship.
I don’t need to be tested for HPV.
Myth
Most cases of HPV come through sexual contact, but it is possible to get HPV non-sexually.
For example, through shared surfaces in public places like gyms or swimming pools.
People can carry HPV for years without knowing it, so screening is the only way to know for sure.
A positive HPV test means I have cancer.
Myth
Cervical screening isn’t a test for cancer, it’s a test for the earliest possible signs that could become cancer.
Finding and treating HPV early can stop cervical cancer before it has a chance to develop.
Having HPV means I have been sleeping around.
Myth
HPV can transfer non-sexually through touching shared surfaces.
Someone can also have HPV for years – and pass it to others – without knowing it.
Regular screening is about keeping you healthy and well.