What cervical screening is, how it works, and why it matters — even when you feel perfectly well.
CervicalCheck is Ireland's national screening programme, designed to help prevent cervical cancer. Run under the HSE, it provides free smear tests to eligible women — appointments are arranged through a GP registered with CervicalCheck, like our practice, and registered participants receive automatic reminder letters when their next test is due. For the current eligible age range and screening intervals, see cervicalcheck.ie.
Regular smear tests detect the HPV virus and identify abnormal cervical cells before they can become cancerous. Anyone who is sexually active can be exposed to HPV. Screening is an essential protection because cervical cancer very rarely shows symptoms in its early stages.
The procedure takes just minutes. The doctor or nurse uses a small brush to gently remove a sample of cells from the cervix, which is then examined in a laboratory. The process carries no real pain or risk — though some people find it a little uncomfortable or embarrassing, and that's completely normal. Our team will always take the time to put you at ease.
An abnormal result is not an immediate cause for concern. Many abnormalities resolve naturally, and a repeat test may simply be recommended. Changes are classified as low or high grade; some cases require a colposcopy and biopsy for a closer look, and your doctor will recommend further treatment only when necessary. No screening test is entirely accurate, but regular smears substantially reduce your risk.
HPV vaccination protects against the virus that causes most cervical cancers, and is offered free through the national schools immunisation programme. Vaccination combined with regular adult smear testing provides the best protection.
Smear tests at Aungier Street Clinic are free for eligible women through CervicalCheck, with private smears also available. Read more on our Women's Health page.
Free for eligible women aged 25–60 through CervicalCheck.