From July 2025, anyone who is screened on or after 1 July 2025 and tests negative for HPV will move to 5 yearly screening unless previous screening history suggests they should be screened more regularly. This means that the recall period will be extended from 3 to 5 years for patients aged 25 to 49 who test negative for HPV. The recall period for 50-64 year olds is currently 5 years.
For more information about cervical smears, please visit: Cervical screening – NHS