HPV self-sampling via your General Practitioner
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HPV self-sampling is a service offered as part of the Cervical Screening Programme. The goal is to increase participation in cervical cancer screening and reduce the number of cervical cancer cases. The test is available for women and others with a cervix who, for various reasons, do not attend screening involving a gynaecological examination. The test is available via GPs across the country.
What is an HPV self-sampling test?
It is a self-test for HPV (human papillomavirus), where you collect a sample from your vagina using a small swab that looks like a cotton bud. You do not need to reach the cervix. The sample is analysed in a laboratory, and the result is sent to your GP after about three weeks.
We recommend taking the test at your GP surgery, where staff can send the sample to the lab for you. However, it is also possible to take the test home with you. The test itself is free, but standard fees apply for the GP consultation.
You may be offered an HPV self-sampling test via your GP if:
- You are over 25 and have not had a cervical screening test for many years.
- You have physical, psychological, or cultural challenges that make it difficult to have a standard cervical screening test. This may apply if you:
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- Have experienced violence or sexual abuse
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- Have a disability
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- Have mental health challenges
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- Have undergone female genital mutilation (FGM)
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- Have other difficulties with undergoing a gynaecological exam
If you have received a letter from the Cervical Screening Programme, bring it to your GP appointment.
HPV self-sampling swab
Is the self-sampling test a replacement for a cervical screening test taken by a doctor?
No. The self-sampling test is an alternative, not a replacement. If possible, it is still recommended to have a cervical screening test performed by a doctor, as this provides a more thorough and holistic assessment. However, self-sampling is just as accurate in detecting HPV and is a good alternative for many.
Is the HPV self-sampling test as reliable as a test taken by a doctor?
Yes, self-sampling is equally safe and effective in detecting HPV. However, since the doctor cannot visually examine the cervix and the test does not detect cell changes, anyone who tests positive must have a follow-up cervical screening taken by a healthcare professional.
When should you not take an HPV self-sampling test?
Postpone the test if you:
- Are menstruating (wait two days after your period has ended)
- Are pregnant or have recently given birth (within the past three months)
- Have had gynaecological surgery in the past month
- Have any of the following symptoms:
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- Irregular bleeding
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- Bleeding after intercourse
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- Bloody or foul-smelling discharge
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- Persistent pelvic or lower abdominal pain
If you have any of these symptoms, you should have a standard cervical screening test.
If you’re unsure, contact your GP or call the Cervical Screening Programme on +47 22 45 13 00 (weekdays 12:00–14:30).
Practical information before taking the test
- The test should not be taken during menstruation.
- Follow the instructions carefully.
- The easiest option is to take the test at the GP surgery, where the staff will send it to the laboratory for you.
- If you take the test at home, you must send it to the laboratory yourself. A prepaid envelope is included. Your GP must complete the request form and label the sample before you leave the surgery.
Filling out the request form and labelling the swab
Both the swab and the request form must be labelled with information about the patient and the doctor. This must be done by the doctor and is essential for the laboratory to analyse the sample and send the result to the GP.
The request form must include:
- Information about the requesting physician
- Patient information
- Date and time of sampling
What happens after you receive the result?
If HPV is detected:
You must attend a follow-up cervical screening taken by a healthcare professional to check for cell changes.
If HPV is not detected:
You are at very low risk of cervical cancer. A new test is recommended in five years. Contact your GP if you develop symptoms in the meantime.