Cervical Cancer Screening
Ontario now uses the HPV test as the standard for cervical screening. This test replaces the Pap test as the primary way to check for cervical cancer risk.
The HPV test looks for high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), the virus that causes most cervical cancers. Pap tests looked only for abnormal cell changes.
By identifying HPV earlier, this new test provides better protection and prevention. It also means screening is needed less often—every five years instead of every three for most people.
Comparing the tests
| Feature | Pap test | New cervical screening (HPV test) |
|---|---|---|
| What it detects | Abnormal cell changes in the cervix | High-risk HPV types that can cause cervical cancer and related cell changes |
| Primary purpose | Finds pre-cancerous or cancerous cells | Detects HPV before cell changes happen, preventing cancer earlier |
| Procedure | Cells collected from cervix and examined under a microscope | Cells collected from cervix, tested for high-risk HPV, and examined for cell changes if needed |
| Effectiveness | Finds existing abnormal cells | Detects HPV earlier, before cell changes occur, making it more effective |
| How often | Every five years | Every five years (for most people) |
| Who is screened | People with a cervix, starting at age 21 (previous guidelines) | People with a cervix, starting at age 25 |
| Follow-up | If abnormal cells are found, more testing or colposcopy may be needed | If HPV is detected, follow-up testing or colposcopy may be needed |
Note: The HPV test feels the same as a Pap test. Cells are still collected from the cervix.
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer starts when abnormal cells grow in the cervix. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus. These changes usually take years to develop, but regular screening can find problems early, often before cancer develops.
Who should get tested?
You should get screened if you:
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Are 25 years or older
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Are a woman, two-spirit person, transmasculine person, or nonbinary person with a cervix
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Have ever had sexual contact (including hand, mouth, or genital contact with another person)
You still need screening if you:
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Have had the HPV vaccine (it does not protect against all HPV types)
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Feel healthy
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Have gone through menopause
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Have no family history of cervical cancer
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Have only had one sexual partner, or the same partner for a long time
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Have not had sexual contact for many years
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Are in a same-sex relationship
When to stop screening
Most people can stop cervical screening between ages 65 and 69. Speak with your health care provider to confirm if you should continue after 69.
How often should I get screened?
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Every five years if your results are normal
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Every three years if you have a weakened immune system (immunocompromised)
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If you test positive for high-risk HPV, you may need a follow-up exam called a cervical colposcopy
How to get screened
You can book cervical screening with your family doctor or nurse practitioner.
If you do not have a health care provider:
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Call 1-800-922-0096 to book an appointment
Reminder: Please do not share personal health information by email.
Contact Us
Southwestern Public Health (8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday)
St. Thomas Site
(Administrative office)
1230 Talbot Street
St. Thomas, ON N5P 1G9
Woodstock Site
410 Buller Street
Woodstock, ON N4S 4N2
Call us toll free: 1-800-922-0096
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