Change in Recall System

Starting from 1 July 2025, NHS England will be switching to a digital system to invite eligable patients to recieve cervical smears. Patients will initially recieve an invitation through their NHS App. If this invitiation is not openned, a text message will then be sent. Letter invitations will still be sent out to patients who need them.

Change in Cervical Screening Frequency

Starting from 1 July 2025, women agaed 25 to 64 will recieve invitations for cervical smears every five years as opposed to every three years. This is due to most women aged 25-49 testing negative for HPV, meaning that they are at low risk of developping cervical cancer. 

Further Information

For more information about these changes, please use the links below.

NHS England » NHS rolls out more personalised cervical screening for millions

Statement from Ashley Dawson - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Public Health and Prevention

Published: Aug 20, 2025