• Vaginal swab also known as HPV swab self-test. You can either test yourself or a professional can help. With this test you collect a sample from your vagina, not from the cervix. It’s quick and easy and should not be uncomfortable.

• Cervical sample (previously known as a smear test) is taken by a health professional.

Our kaimahi can help you find out which type of test is better for you.

The vaginal swab is quick and easy to do. But this may not be suitable for everyone. Some people may be recommended to have a cervical cell sample taken (previously known as a smear test) depending on their screening history.

Some people may also prefer to have their sample taken as a cervical sample. A cervical sample also tests for HPV.

If you do a vaginal swab test and HPV is found, you will either be recommended to return to have a cervical sample taken as a follow-up test, or referred directly to colposcopy. This will depend on the type of HPV detected.

For more information on the vaginal swab and cervical swab click this link

Te Piki Oranga has a lead role in supporting women to undertake regular cancer screening. We do this by:

• Identifying eligible women for screening

• Providing information and support

• Raising awareness about the importance of screening

• Making the screening test accessible and organising testing clinics

• Referring women to other services as appropriate

• Ensuring cervical screening services are accessible to the priority group