Topic 9: hrHPV self-testing
Updated 2 September 2026
Applies to England
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1. hrHPV self-test offer to under screened women and people with a cervix
1.1 Guidance for the trainer
Signpost the trainee to more information in the sample takers guidance on good practice.
High-risk HPV (hrHPV) self-testing is offered to eligible individuals who have not participated in cervical screening when invited. Note that hrHPV self-testing does not replace clinician-collected primary HPV screening; individuals who receive a positive hrHPV result from a self-test are still required to attend for a clinician-collected cervical sample to confirm the result and for cytology to be undertaken.
Eligible individuals are identified through the call and recall system and invited to participate in hrHPV self-testing. Once an order for a self-test kit is placed, a logistics provider will dispatch of a test kit to the participant’s preferred address. Each kit is assigned to its recipient and includes all necessary materials and clear instructions for completion.
Participants collect their sample and post the test kit to the cervical screening laboratory using the envelope that is included. Results are subsequently communicated to the participant through the call and recall system and shared with the participant’s GP practice.
2. The clinical pathway for HPV self-testing
2.1 Guidance for the trainer
Signpost the trainee to the flowchart describing the hrHPV self-testing screening pathway.
If the hrHPV result is negative, the participant will be invited for their next routine cervical screening test in five years.
If the hrHPV result is positive, the participant is advised to book an appointment for a clinician-collected cervical screening sample. The hrHPV test is repeated on this sample, and if the result remains positive, cytology is performed. All subsequent results and follow-up is managed according to the NHS Cervical Screening Programme (NHSCSP) guidelines.
If a high-risk HPV result cannot be obtained, the call and recall service will inform the participant and another self-test kit will be dispatched. If the result from a participant’s second hrHPV self-test is also unavailable, the individual will be advised to have a cervical screening sample collected by a clinician. The results from this clinician-collected cervical sample, along with any follow-up is managed according to the NHSCSP guidelines.