Before You Get Pregnant

If you're thinking about starting a family, it's a good idea to check that you're up to date with your cervical screening.

If you’re due for a test, try to have it before you become pregnant. This means that if any follow-up tests or treatments are needed, they can be arranged and completed without the added consideration of pregnancy. The NHS offers cervical screening every 3 years for those aged 25-49, and every 5 years for those aged 50-64.

During Pregnancy

You will not usually need to have cervical screening if you're pregnant, or could be pregnant, until at least 12 weeks after you've given birth. This is because pregnancy can make it harder to get clear results.

If you’re already pregnant and due for a cervical screening test then tell the GP or clinic.

You will usually be advised to reschedule the test for a date around 12 weeks after your baby is born.

If you’ve previously had an abnormal result from a cervical screening test, you may need to be screened while you’re pregnant. Your GP or midwife may ask you to have a cervical screening test at your first antenatal appointment. This test will not affect your pregnancy.

After Giving Birth

Once your baby has arrived, it's really important to reschedule any cervical screening tests that were postponed during your pregnancy.

The current guidance from the NHS Cervical Screening Programme is to have your test around 12 weeks (3 months) after your baby is born. This waiting period allows your body to recover and your cervix to return to its normal state, which helps ensure a clear and accurate test result.

Even if you’re breastfeeding, you can still have a cervical screening test once it’s been 12 weeks since your baby was born. Breastfeeding does not affect the results, though hormone changes can sometimes make the test feel a little more uncomfortable.